Slovenia’s summer energy is something you can’t quite capture in a single photo—it’s in the rhythm of sneakers hitting the pavement, the splash of waves against the shore, and the laughter echoing across sports courts. This season, Samsung Adriatic joined that energy, bringing together athletic passion, innovation, and a little bit of fun, through two unforgettable “Run and Try” and “Play and Try” experiences.

 

From Pavement to Pool: The Portorož “Run and Try”

 

It all began on a bright July 26 morning at Monty’s Dog and Beach Bar in Portorož, Slovenia. Invited through the Running Club Community’s buzzing social media channels, a large group of runners gathered, ready for a challenge - and a surprise.

 

Before hitting the streets, each runner was fitted with the brand-new Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic, guided by the friendly expertise of the host runner. A quick warm-up, a few stretches, and they were off—gliding through the charming streets, sandy beach paths, and the lively marina, with refreshment stations along the way to keep spirits high. Maybe it was the combination of the fresh sea air or maybe a high Energy score, the runners enjoyed the experience so much that they were posting on social media and creating even more Galaxy Watch8 buzz.

 

Even the finish line was special. The runners were greeted not just with applause, but the Smashy Beach Pool Party, where cool water, great music, and the latest Galaxy Z Series awaited. Between dips in the pool and conversations about foldables, runners compared stats from their watches—marveling at the real-time tracking, heart rate insights, and detailed health data the Galaxy Watch8 delivered. Additionally, runners were given the special Try/Buy option, where they could test the devices for two weeks and if they decide the device is a keeper, receive an additional discount.

 

At the end of the day, all were impressed:

 

Feels elegant on the wrist, and with all the features it was a good option to have it tested like this – usually you just have to decide based on what you read – so I gave it a good run. - Tina, 25

 

Would love to get to know this device event better – will apply for the Try&Buy option with Watch8 Classic and Galaxy Z Fold7, thank you for this great day. - Jani, 32

 

Thank you for hosting us, I could do a trial like this every weekend. But really, Watch8 feels nice on the wrist, elegant and light, and packed with features, need to test it more and see, got my eyes on Watch8 plus Galaxy Z Flip7 combo. - Anja, 26

 

From Court to Crowd: The “Play and Try” Padel Experience

 

Next, Samsung Adriatic stepped onto the courts in partnership with the National Padel Association of Slovenia. At key tournaments across Kranj, Maribor, and soon Ljubljana, players and fans alike had the chance to slip on the Galaxy Watch8 or Galaxy Watch8 Classic and experience them in action.

 

While players smashed and volleyed under the summer sun, the watches kept track—measuring performance, stamina, and health stats with remarkable precision. For visitors not in the game, the compact plug-in setups meant they could still explore the Galaxy ecosystem, getting hands-on with the technology that supports an active lifestyle. Of course, the Try&Buy option was also present at the padel courts, so their first experience with the device was also important:

 

I like the Galaxy Watch8 feeling on the wrist, really light and does not interfere or disturb during play. Had fun wearing and testing, my heart rate was good and I‘ll wear it for a few more matches! - Žan, 26

 

Elegant on the hand but packing that sports activity benefit –playing was good with the Watch8 Classic, to see the data and also check health features. - Boštjan, 37

 

Not sue how the watch knows, but it‘s a great feature, to be able to track the activity you‘re doing. Design is nice, also tried Gemini, amazed and it sure makes productivity and focus better. - Marko, 28

 

For me, I‘d say the design and how nicely it fits my wrist –I do tracking of my activities, and tracking health indicators also makes it worth considering. Nice to see such set up and have the devices available for test during play. - Kaja, 29

 

With Slovenia’s sports culture thriving, the courts became the perfect stage to show how the Galaxy Watch8 can adapt to every movement - whether you’re sprinting for a ball or pacing yourself for a marathon.

 

The Watch That Moves With You

 

Whether running along the coast or swinging a padel racket, one thing became clear—the Galaxy Watch8 isn’t just a device, it’s a coach, a motivator, and a health companion. By combining sleek design with powerful health insights, it empowers users to push their limits, track their progress, and achieve goals with confidence.

 

This summer in Slovenia, Samsung Adriatic didn’t just showcase a watch - they shared experiences, built connections, and proved that with the right tools, every step, swing, and heartbeat can bring you closer to your personal best.

 

Here’s to more movement, more milestones, and more moments worth tracking.