In the heart of northern Montenegro, in the small town of Mojkovac, flows an invisible but powerful river – the Athletic Club Tara. Founded 18 years ago, this club is not just a place for training but a nursery of talents who rack up successes at European and world competitions. But what sets them apart is not just the number of medals – it’s a philosophy of no excuses, no borders, and no politics.
While others look for excuses, Tara breaks down barriers! Here, no child pays for training, equipment, supplements, or travel. Everything is funded from their own resources. The only criterion? Talent and hard work! No connections, no politics, no nepotism. If someone finds a better club, Tara gives them a free transfer – because the most important thing is that the kids progress.
Stories like Vesna Kljajević, who went from Mojkovac to an American college and world championships, or Olja Simićević, discovered as a talent at just five years old and now third on the world ranking in her age group, show how sport can change lives. These young champions train with heart, in conditions without luxury but full of discipline, honesty, and faith.
Memories of the first fields by the Tara river, where kids often trained with wet feet, are now far behind. Thanks to the MOSI games, they got a proper field, and their athletes are ambassadors of Montenegro worldwide. Although athletics in Montenegro is a poor sport, Club Tara proves that with love and dedication, greatness can be achieved.
Coach Danilo Ristić and his father Marko have been building this story for years, and their message is clear: “We don’t raise white flags!” At upcoming competitions, including the European Championship in Norway and Balkan championships with over 20 countries, they go for medals, competing against countries with much bigger resources.
This club proves that talent and effort can pull kids off the streets, away from phones, and give them a chance for a better future. Tara flows, and with it flows hope for many young athletes. If you think sport is only for the rich and privileged, think again – Mojkovac and Athletic Club Tara are here to prove you wrong.
So, what do you think? Is it possible for a small town with limited resources to create champions competing with the best in the world? Or is it just a fairy tale for kids? Drop a comment, share your story, or just have a laugh – because here, there’s no room for excuses!
