The International Trabzon Half Marathon, organized by the Trabzon Metropolitan Municipality, will be held for the 45th time this year and will have an important place among the country's sports organizations. The event, which will be held with Vakıfbank as the main sponsor, offers a great opportunity not only for athletes but also for everyone who wants to contribute to the promotion of Trabzon. In this article, we will focus on the details of this prestigious organization and its impact on Trabzon's sports tourism.
Launch of Trabzon Half Marathon: Opening to the World from Istanbul
Trabzon Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Metin Genç held the first launch of the 45th International Trabzon Half Marathon in Istanbul. This event aims to contribute to the international promotion of both Trabzon and Turkey. In addition to Genç, important names such as Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Enes Eminoğlu, Trabzon Deputy Governor Hacı Osman Hökelekli, Trabzon Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Erkut Çelebi, Turkish Athletics Federation President Ahmet Karadağ, and Vakıfbank Deputy General Manager Ferkan Merdan attended the launch meeting in Istanbul.
In his speech, President Genç emphasized that Trabzon is a city of history, culture and art as well as a center of sports. He particularly emphasized that the values that Trabzonspor has brought to the city and the country and that international organizations such as the marathon have made great contributions to the city.
“Run Towards Peace with Every Step”: A Slogan and a Mission
The main slogan of this year's marathon was determined as "Run for Peace with Every Step". This slogan shows that the organization aims to convey a message of peace and brotherhood beyond being just a sports event. This meaningful message will be a source of inspiration for the racers and participants, and will allow the organization to make an international impact.
The competition is expected to be attended worldwide. The International Trabzon Half Marathon accepts participants not only from Turkey but also from 15 different countries. The social responsibility aspect of the marathon is also quite remarkable; all revenues from the race will be donated to Yeşilay, UNICEF and the Turkish Athletics Foundation.
Contribution to Trabzon's Sports Tourism
Trabzon has great potential for sports tourism with its geographical location, historical riches and nature. Trabzon Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Metin Genç stated that this organization aims to provide economic contribution to the city. The marathon is organized to promote the city and attract the attention of athletes and visitors interested in sports tourism.
As of 2025, many different sports events will be held in Trabzon. Organizations such as the Karate Turkey Championship, Ultra Sumela Run, and Gran Fondo Cycling Competition prove that the city is intertwined with sports. Such events will pave the way for Trabzon to become a central place in terms of international sports organizations.
Economic Reflection of Marathon in Trabzon
The International Trabzon Half Marathon is expected to provide significant economic benefits to both the city and the country. With more than 10 participants and spectators coming to Trabzon, a large tourist flow will be provided to the city. Local hotels, restaurants, transportation sectors and other touristic businesses will be positively affected by this event.
Mayor Genç said, “We aim to revitalize the city’s economy with such large organizations. Every organization combined with sports adds a new vision to Trabzon and contributes economically.” Organizations such as the marathon, in particular, contribute to the economic development of Trabzon by revealing the city’s tourism potential.
More Sports Events in 2025
Trabzon will continue to make a name for itself in 2025 with events in different branches of sports. Mayor Genç said that major events such as the Karate Turkey Championship, Ultra Sumela Run and Gran Fondo Cycling Competition will make a great contribution to Trabzon. In addition, competitions will be held in different branches of sports such as chess, table tennis and beach volleyball. Strengthening the sports infrastructure in the city and increasing organizational capacity will allow Trabzon to become a sports center.
Trabzon on its Way to Becoming a “Sports City”
Trabzon is on its way to becoming one of the important centers of sports in the international arena. The Trabzon Half Marathon, which has been going on for 45 years, reflects the city's sports culture and organizational talent. Mayor Genç expressed Trabzon's goal of becoming a sports city with the following words: "All these efforts will make a great contribution to the economy of our city and our country. Quality sports-related organizations are an important step to contribute to the promotion of our city."
Trabzon's sports events attract not only locals but also international participants. Trabzon's historical and cultural heritage, combined with sports, adds a unique value to the city. As one of the rising stars of sports tourism, the city is a candidate to host more international organizations in the future.
Marathon Registration and Participation
Registrations are ongoing for those who want to participate in the International Trabzon Half Marathon. Applications for this organization, which will be held on February 23, can be made until February 18. Participants who will compete on different courses such as 21K, 10K, 4K and 1K will be able to take part in this prestigious event where runners of all ages and levels can compete.
In conclusion, the International Trabzon Half Marathon is not just a sports event, but an important organization that supports the international promotion of Trabzon and sports tourism. Organized to contribute to both the city and Turkey, this marathon plays a key role in the promotion of Trabzon through sports.
