19. Od punte do punte — La Balena

The 19th edition of 'Od punte do punte — La Balena' is a 3,600-meter open water swimming event scheduled for September 19, 2026, in the coastal waters of Rovinj, Croatia. Organized by PK Delfin Rovinj, this race utilizes a circular course set within the Valdaliso bay, providing a controlled environment for swimmers to test their endurance over a significant mid-distance challenge. The start and finish lines are located directly in the sea in front of the beach belonging to the Martin Horvat Orthopedic Hospital.

The course environment

Swimmers will navigate the waters around the hospital beach, a location historically significant for its therapeutic coastal setting. The race structure, characterized by the 3,600-meter distance, requires a steady pace as participants transition through the bay's calm, clear waters. The event date in mid-September typically offers stable sea temperatures, favorable for an extended swim without excessive thermal stress. Because the course is situated within an active bay area, the organizers employ a structured safety protocol, ensuring that the maritime traffic is managed to provide a clear lane for the competitors throughout the duration of the event.

Logistics and participation

Registration typically opens on the morning of the race, allowing participants to handle check-in and numbering on the beach at Uvala Ruja. Following the main event, the organizers host a communal lunch and an awards ceremony in the nearby pine grove, a tradition that reinforces the community-focused nature of the gathering. The proximity to the hospital facilities provides logistical advantages, including accessible parking areas nearby that allow for a short walk to the start. The event relies on the support of local volunteers who manage the in-water safety and participant coordination, ensuring that the flow of the 3,600-meter distance remains efficient for all registered swimmers.