Honorary cycling tour completed in capital

ANKARA

Starting from the Central Anatolian province of Sivas, a total of 100 cyclists have finished a bicycle race held to honor the establishment of modern Türkiye a century ago.

The race, organized by the Presidency with the participation of 100 athletes from 16 teams in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Republic, started on Aug. 1.

The cyclists pedaled 784 kilometers to Ankara through Sivas, Amasya, Havza, Samsun, Çorum and Çankırı provinces, completing the route in five stages.

Petros Mengs from Beykoz Municipality Sports Club came first in the race, followed by Samet Bulut from Konya and Daniil Marukhin from Vino SKO Team, respectively.

The cyclists received their awards from Celal Adan, deputy speaker of the Parliament.

Speaking at the ceremony, Adan drew attention to the importance of Sivas in Turkish history, noting that the most beautiful architectural works of Turkish-Islamic civilization were built there.

“In addition, Sivas once hosted the great leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk during the Turkish national movement. Therefore, it is very meaningful that this event started from Sivas,” Adan said.

Adan also reminded that Aug. 5 is also the day Atatürk was given the title of “Commander-in-Chief” and said that the event has become even more meaningful in this sense.

Stating that although there have been great technological innovations in the world, Adan stressed that cycling is the only transportation vehicle that occupies a great place in everyone’s daily lives.

“The bicycles do not change in the face of technology, nor should they. Cycling is incredibly beneficial for both the environment and for staying fit. I know that both our former Sports Minister and our current Minister are very sensitive to this issue. I would like to express that we will support whatever comes to the parliament regarding the basic issues of the Bicycle Federation and bicycle riders,” Adan added.