AIVA Trophy for Novalja: Promotional Film ‘Island of the Brave’ Declared Winner in the Sports Tourism Category
At the prestigious AIVA – Aces International Video Awards (October 10–12, 2025) in Macerata, the promotional film “Island of the Brave” was declared the winner in the Sports Tourism category, sharing the award with the Italian city of Agropoli.
“Island of the Brave” has become our recognizable promotional tool and visual symbol of the sporting identity of the island of Pag – the island of the brave, emphasized Marina Šćiran, Director of the Novalja Tourist Board, highlighting that the film conveys the power of the landscape, the challenge, and the authentic emotions that attract active travelers from around the world.
This recognition comes in a year when Novalja holds the title of European City of Sport 2025, confirming long-term investments in sports infrastructure, sustainable active tourism, and top-level sports events. Symbolically, on the same weekend the film was awarded in Italy, Novalja and the island of Pag hosted the Granfondo Pag – Cycling on the Moon bike marathon, completing a strong narrative around sport, destination branding, and international visibility.
The film “Island of the Brave” has already won numerous international awards: TEF Festival, Krk – 1st place (Tourism Film), ITB Berlin – Silver Award (Region), ITFFA, South Africa – Silver Award, and it reached the finals of JWTFF, Japan.
This year in Novalja also marks the development of sports clubs and communities: the Novalja Sailing Club and Novalja Cycling Club were established, with the latter winning 2nd place in the Granfondo Pag race in the Best Men’s Team category. Currently, the Novalja City Sports Community is welcoming the Wrestling Club Metalac, Gymnastics Club Lički Sokol, and Kickboxing Club Spartan, bringing the total membership to 14.
The Pag Outdoor project, under which the promotional film was created, continues to connect the island’s tourist boards and develop a network of trails, itineraries, and events for all types of outdoor guests. “The development of sports tourism is our strategic direction – from local clubs and volunteers to major international races. This award confirms that we successfully integrate promotional activities and events that combine tourism and sport while building a foundation for the future,” Šćiran emphasizes.
The AIVA award once again confirms that Novalja and the island of Pag successfully combine world-class events with emotionally compelling storytelling, creating a destination that inspires – both on screen and in the field.
