Fethiye, MUĞLA – The highly popular Fethiye Sporfest, now in its 6th year, continued with a full schedule of events throughout the weekend. Organized under the leadership of the Fethiye District Governorate and coordinated by the District Directorate of Youth and Sports, the 6th Fethiye Sporfest featured a series of fiercely contested competitions across the region.
The festival’s events took place on Saturday and Sunday in both Ölüdeniz and Butterfly Valley, drawing significant participation and enthusiasm. The beach volleyball competition for individuals with disabilities began at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Ölüdeniz Beach Volleyball Court, with the awards ceremony held at 4:00 p.m.
Meanwhile, the 6th International Ölüdeniz Open Water Swimming Race took place in Butterfly Valley over the weekend.
A total of 493 athletes competed in the event, organized through a collaboration between the Fethiye District Directorate of Youth and Sports and Coastal Management and Environmental Protection Inc.
Speaking at the start of the race on Butterfly Valley Beach, Fethiye District Governor Fatih Akkaya noted that the valley, one of Turkey’s most photographed natural wonders, has hosted open water swimming races within the festival for several years.
Governor Akkaya congratulated all participants, saying, “May every stroke you take be a means to freedom, justice, and the end of evil wherever it may be in the world. I wish everyone success.” Following his remarks, he officially started the 6,000-meter race toward Ölüdeniz.
In the overall standings, Nilay Ulugergerli claimed first place in the women’s category, while Mark Shrom of Russia won the men’s division. Shrom told reporters that the water was “cold and choppy at first, but it warmed up after a while.”
Expressing his delight in taking part, he added, “Swimming six kilometers here was wonderful. Starting from Butterfly Valley was very enjoyable, and seeing the mountains surrounding the valley made it even more special.”
The day concluded with an awards ceremony, where medals and trophies were presented to the winning athletes — a fitting finale to another memorable chapter of Sporfest Fethiye Ölüdeniz 2025.
Source & images: Gerçek Fethiye
Sporfest Fethiye Ölüdeniz 2025 – Second Day Impressions
By Haluk Direskeneli
Ölüdeniz, October 12, 2025
The second day of Sporfest Fethiye Ölüdeniz 2025 concluded with the festival’s longest and most challenging event — the 6,000-meter open water race. Beginning early in the morning off the coast of Butterfly Valley, the race offered athletes an unforgettable open-sea experience that tested both endurance and spirit.
For many participants, the 6K swim was the highlight of the year. Months of preparation culminated in this demanding challenge, which lasted more than two hours. Swimmers appeared to lose themselves in the rhythm of the sea, the wind, and the waves — a moment where time seemed to stand still. Those who completed the course carried unmistakable expressions of pride and satisfaction as they emerged from the water.
The race began at 09:50 under calm conditions, though rising temperatures and occasional gusts of wind soon added difficulty. Above the swimmers, paragliders descended gracefully from Babadağ Mountain, filling the sky with color, while below, athletes formed a dynamic mosaic across the turquoise waters. Despite the long distance and strong currents in some sections, most competitors performed impressively and finished the race successfully.
As swimmers crossed the finish line, cheers and applause erupted from the shore. Family members, friends, and spectators celebrated their efforts with enthusiasm. The organizing committee once again ensured flawless safety, timing, and coordination, earning praise from participants and visitors alike.
Later in the afternoon, the No.1 Beach Club transformed into a lively celebration zone. A three-member music group entertained the crowd with popular tunes as athletes and guests danced together, capturing the joyful essence of Sporfest.
The second day of Sporfest was not only about sport — it was a true festival of friendship, music, and nature. The enthusiasm of the participants, the professionalism of the organizers, and the stunning beauty of Ölüdeniz combined to create an atmosphere that was both uplifting and unforgettable.
📷 Haluk Direskeneli
In conclusion:
With its second day, Sporfest Fethiye Ölüdeniz 2025 once again proved to be a magnificent celebration where sport, nature, and music came together in harmony. The 6,000-meter open water race stood as a formidable test of strength and endurance — yet, as always, camaraderie, perseverance, and joy were the true winners.
