During one of our swimming trips in Montenegro 2016, we were lucky and felt extremely privileged to meet Dusan Mandic, the son of our wonderful boat captain Budo.
Dusan has played water polo for Serbia for several years and this past summer won his first olympic gold medal in Rio!
He was visiting his family following the win in Rio. It was humbling to meet such a kind, genuine and down to earth young man, who is one of the best in the world at his sport. He is left handed, 2m tall and extremely nice like his father Budo, who works with us throughout the summer. We know that Budo is extremely proud of his son and it was a privilege to meet and congratulate him on his achievements.
When Mandic is not representing Serbia he plays for the Italian club, Pro Recco.
We run our Montenegro trips in the Bay of Kotor, Tivat Bay and the open Mediterranean. Water polo is the national sport here and it is clear to see why. All along the bays throughout the summer are children and adults playing in the water. There are many floating water polo goals that are dotted along the coastline. Swimming and playing in the water here is a uplifting and not just because of the salinity of the water. Swimming against the dramatic backdrops of mountains in the fjords is an inspiration, being in this water is exhilarating and it is understandable how champions have emerged from this striking place.