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.

The post Sporfest Fethiye Ölüdeniz 2025 appeared first on Fethiye Times.

Fethiye’s Ölüdeniz, one of Turkey’s most captivating natural wonders, will once again host a major event that celebrates both sport and nature. Sporfest Ölüdeniz Open Water 2025 will take place on October 11–12, featuring open water swimming races over various distances. The highlight of this year’s programme is the 6-kilometre “ProFest 6K” race, which begins in the world-famous Butterfly Valley.

The 6K course starts from Butterfly Valley beach and finishes on the shores of Ölüdeniz No:1 Beach Club. Swimmers will gather in Ölüdeniz early in the morning before being transported by boat to the starting point, with the race beginning at 9:30 a.m. This route tests swimmers both physically and mentally — changing wave directions, winds, and sea currents pose significant challenges as they move from the valley into open water. Yet it’s also an unforgettable experience, set against one of the most breathtaking coastal backdrops in Turkey.

The Sporfest programme offers more than just the flagship 6K race. According to the official event website, several other courses are planned for different skill levels, including 1K, 2K, and 3K stages. The 1,500- and 3,000-metre categories have also drawn significant attention in previous years.

The event follows World Aquatics open water swimming regulations. All participants must wear official swim caps and time chips and present valid health certificates. Neoprene wetsuits are not permitted, but inflatable safety buoys are allowed. The time limit for the 6K course is 180 minutes, and results will be classified separately by age and gender. For safety, boats, lifeguards, and a GPS-controlled timing system will be on duty throughout the race.

Butterfly Valley is not only one of Fethiye’s most spectacular sites but also a jewel of the entire Mediterranean. Beginning the race here adds both visual and emotional depth to the event — the steep cliffs merge with the turquoise sea, creating a stunning natural amphitheatre. Swimming through this setting is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, though not without challenges. Shifting winds, fluctuating water temperatures, and unpredictable currents make navigation and strategy key to success.

Recent open water events such as the Kuşadası Open Water Swimming Race have highlighted the importance of local government involvement. Organised with the support of public authorities, the event featured ambulances, safety teams, and complimentary amenities for participants — including food and refreshments provided by sponsors. Such examples show how essential municipal and private sector support is for the sustainable growth of open water swimming in Turkey.

Sporfest Ölüdeniz 2025 is more than a sporting event; it’s a symbol of endurance and harmony between humans and nature. As it draws increasing numbers of both local and international athletes each year, Ölüdeniz is fast becoming a leading hub for open water swimming in Turkey.

Interest in open water swimming continues to grow nationwide, and Sporfest Ölüdeniz 2025 looks set to be the most striking reflection yet of this rising tide.

You can access the website listing all the races of the year here

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