The town of Belišće, Croatia, recently inaugurated the sculpture of Matija Ljubek, famous Croatian sportsman, who was born in this town. Matija Ljubek is the most successful Croatian canoeist to this day and one of the most successful Croatian sportsmen of all times.
On the occasion of the City Day and the 134th anniversary of the establishment of Belišće and title of European City of Sport 2017, Mayor of the city and other officials inaugurated a sculpture in honour of their famous compatriot Matija Ljubek who tragically died 18 years ago.
Matija Ljubek, who was born in Belišće in 1953, was two times Olympic Champion in C1 1000 metres event and C2 500 metres event in 1976 and 1984, silver medallist from 1984 Olympics and bronze medallist from 1976 Olympics. He won ten medals at World Championships (4 gold medals, 3 silver and 3 bronze medals), and three gold medals at Mediterranean Games in Split in 1979.
“Today a sculpture, and soon, I hope, also a Matija Ljubek Museum. Not only as a remembrance of his many outstanding achievements, but also as a message and motivation for the future generations, especially children, not only in sport, but in all aspects of life,” said Mayor Dinko Burić. By placing this sculpture the people of Belišće paid tribute to all former, present and future athletes and workers, with a vision that comes only with tireless work.
Matija Ljubek died in 2000 when he was shot by an estranged brother-in-law only days after his return from the Olympic Games in Sydney.
Photo: Tin Lacković
Source: http://www.glas-slavonije.hr/362980/4/Otkrivena-skulptura-velikog-Matije-Ljubeka
7.5.2018
