17 Jun Gala in Ankara: My Journey in CelebratingCultural Sports
Ankara, the vibrant heart of Turkey, recently played host to a remarkable event that showcased the
power of cultural sports in fostering international friendships and understanding. This unique gala
was part of the project “Gelenekten Geleceğe Spordan Kardeşliğe” (From Tradition To The Future,
From Sports To Brotherhood), which brought together participants from Turkey, North Macedonia,
Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sweden. I was fortunate to attend this event with another dedicated
volunteer who had previously participated in various activities of the project across different
countries.
From the 26th to the 29th of June, we, a duo of enthusiastic volunteers from Sweden, descended
upon Ankara, eager to explore the city’s historical and cultural treasures. Our visit began with a
comprehensive tour of Ankara, designed to immerse us in the local heritage and lifestyle.
Exploring the City
We had the opportunity to visit some of Ankara’s most iconic landmarks, including:
- Anıtkabir: The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of
Turkey, offering insights into the nation’s modern history. - The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A treasure trove of artifacts from Turkey’s diverse
history, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s ancient cultures. - Kocatepe Mosque: A stunning example of modern Turkish architecture and a significant
religious site.
These visits not only educated us about Turkish history and culture but also set the stage for the
gala’s main event.
The Cultural Sports Gala
The gala was a vibrant celebration of cultural sports, bringing together athletes and performers from
Turkey, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sweden. The event aimed to promote
cross-cultural understanding and highlight the unique sports and traditions each country brings to
the international stage.
Highlights of the Gala - Theatrical Scene: One of the main attractions was a theatrical performance depicting a
historical scene where men vowed for jobs and received career advice from the elders of the
community. This scene highlighted the importance of mentorship and community support in
career development. - Photography Award Ceremony: The second major event was the award ceremony for the
best photography capturing cultural sports in Eurasian countries. The Philippines won first
place, and the prize was accepted by the Ambassador Representative of the Philippines in
Turkey. - Video Screenings: The gala featured video screenings showcasing old activities held in
various cities by the project’s partner organizations. Special attention was given to activities
organized by IF ALL, with the main events held in Örkelljunga, Sweden, where kayaking is
a prominent sport.
Each country showcased its traditional sports. Turkey presented oil wrestling, North Macedonia
featured traditional dances, Bosnia and Herzegovina displayed martial arts, and Sweden highlighted
its unique take on orienteering.
The gala was more than just a sports event; it was a celebration of unity and shared human
experience. The interactions and friendships formed during these few days in Ankara exemplified
how cultural sports can transcend borders and bring people together.
As volunteers, we expressed our gratitude for the warm hospitality and the enriching experiences
we had in Ankara. The event not only broadened our understanding of different cultures but also
inspired us to promote cultural sports back in Sweden.
The gala in Ankara was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. It
underscored the importance of cultural exchange and the role of sports in building bridges between
nations. As we returned to our respective countries, we carried with us memories of a unique event
that celebrated diversity and unity through the universal language of sports.
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