1. When did you fall in love with cycling and how did you get into ultramarathons?
I was born in Kikinda, a place that has all the conditions for falling in love with cycling and nature – a river, a canal, a ferry crossing. I started riding as a kid, but the turning point came when I completed 1,200 kilometers in a single tour for the first time. That led me toward ultramarathons, or brevets - rides of 200 kilometers and more. I especially remember 2017, when we made a full circle around Bosnia - we rode 1,200 kilometers in 96 hours. In 2019, I also took part in the most prestigious tour in Paris, from Paris to Brest and back, which I completed in 98 hours. For me, it is both a challenge and a way to push my own limits, to step outside my comfort zone. When I achieve a goal I set for myself, I feel great satisfaction and strength. It teaches me how mentally strong I am - both on the bike and in life.

2. What does cycling mean to you in everyday life?
I ride through nature three times a week. Sometimes it’s hard, but in the end it’s always worth it. I love cycling because it brings both physical and mental benefits - I stay in shape all the time, it’s a true aerobic workout and an excellent endurance test. Although I drive to work, cycling is my outlet and my way to relax. Nature fulfills me even more - I love photographing everything I see, whether I’m riding through Romania, Bosnia, France or Serbia. My strongest impression was riding through Bosnia - we were tired, sleep-deprived, and suddenly there was this entire sunny valley in front of us; I felt like crying. In just a few days we went through all four seasons - from eight degrees on Romanija mountain to thirty degrees in the sun the next day. And in France, I experienced part of the atmosphere I imagine Tour de France riders feel - people standing by the road, waving, cheering you on, shouting “Allez, allez!” - it’s a special experience.

3. Why would you recommend cycling to others?
Because it’s an aerobic sport that doesn’t put strain on the knees and joints, strengthens the heart and blood vessels, improves health, and brings adventure - you can travel long distances and experience nature in a completely different way. All you need is a basic bicycle, good will and motivation. I’m proud that my son rides too - he’s been “infected” with cycling since he was little. The most important lesson I always repeat is safety: a helmet is mandatory, along with strong front and rear lights and a reflective vest. Drivers here still don’t pay enough attention to cyclists, which is why extra caution is necessary. Also, Serbia needs many more cycling paths and cycling infrastructure. My message to everyone is: just start riding - it doesn’t matter what kind of bike you have, what matters is the will.