Croatian pride at Brazil’s most prestigious street race

Fernando Crnković during the 98th Saint Silvester Road Race in Brazil (Photo credit: Marcos Viana “Pinguim”)

In the heart of São Paulo, Brazil, the 98th Saint Silvester Road Race took place on New Year’s Eve.

A sea of runners, clad in a kaleidoscope of colours, gathered to celebrate the oldest and most prestigious street race in Brazil.

The Saint Silvester Road Race, a long-distance running extravaganza, has been an integral part of Brazilian culture since its inception on December 31, 1925.

The race holds the distinction of being the main international event in Latin American athletics, a spectacle that captivates not only the 2 million-plus inhabitants of São Paulo but also reaches the eyes of curious spectators in 140 countries around the globe.

Like so many events around the world, the Croatian colours and spirit were spotted among the big crowd.

Amidst the sea of competitors, Croatian-Brazilian Fernando Crnković stood out like a beacon of Croatian pride.

Decked in the iconic red and white Croatian checkers, adorned with a matching hat, and not to mention the giant foam hands waving a spirited “Viva Croacia” to all who crossed his path.

Fernando Crnković (Photo credit: Marcos Viana “Pinguim”)

Fernando brought a touch of Croatia to the Brazilian pavement, weaving through the diverse crowd with infectious enthusiasm. His presence was a reminder that Croatians are everywhere.