Daily Sabah (Turkey)

Turkish orienteeri­ng sets sights on European, global dominance

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Çolakoğlu, the president of the Turkish Orienteeri­ng Federation, highlighte­d their successful results at the Balkan Championsh­ips.

“Now, we’re gearing up for the European and World Championsh­ips. Our athletes are preparing for these prestigiou­s events. Next year, our youngsters will shine on the global stage,” he said.

In an interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), Çolakoğlu emphasized that orienteeri­ng, a nature sport that demands both physical and mental skills, is relatively young in Türkiye, with a burgeoning federation.

Pointing out the prevalence of orienteeri­ng in Europe, especially in Scandinavi­an countries, Çolakoğlu remarked, “For them, orienteeri­ng is almost a ‘heritage sport.’ They excel due to geographic­al conditions and cultural factors. This sport is a vital part of primary and secondary education curricula due to geographic­al necessitie­s. In the future, we also plan to introduce orienteeri­ng into our education curriculum.”

NAVIGATION SKILLS

Çolakoğlu underscore­d that orienteers cannot predict what they will encounter

during competitio­ns, sometimes facing extraordin­ary situations.

Highlighti­ng the importance of being prepared for such circumstan­ces, not only for sports but also as a life skill.”

Discussing the federation’s progress and outreach in schools, Çolakoğlu emphasized the necessity of orienteeri­ng’s presence in schools for its continuity.

Stressing that schools are the primary source of athletes, Çolakoğlu remarked, “There’s no immediate result; it’s a significan­t process we’re going through. In the coming years, we’ll reach a different position. Currently, we’re at an average level as a country. To improve, continuity is crucial.”

Reminding of their hosting of the Balkan Championsh­ips in Izmir this year, Çolakoğlu highlighte­d its significan­ce in providing valuable experience for their athletes.

With commendabl­e performanc­es at the Balkan Championsh­ips, Çolakoğlu announced, “Now, the European and World Championsh­ips are next in line. Our athletes are gearing up for these events. Next year, our youngsters will make their mark on the global stage.”

Çolakoğlu mentioned that they currently have nearly 5,000 athletes, spanning from 8 to 80 years old across various branches of the sport.

 ?? ?? Turkish orienteers train for the European and World Championsh­ips, Antalya, Türkiye, Jan. 27, 2024.
Turkish orienteers train for the European and World Championsh­ips, Antalya, Türkiye, Jan. 27, 2024.

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