While the marathon distance is officially accepted as 42 kilometers worldwide, the people of Ordu organize a different event every year. As part of "Ordululer Day", the challenging 52-kilometer course, which is the license plate number of the city, is overcome by runners with love for their hometown.
This special run, organized in collaboration with Ordu Metropolitan Municipality and KoşuyORDU Sports Club, was originally planned for February 5th, World Ordu Day. However, this meaningful 52-kilometer event, which was postponed due to adverse weather conditions, was finally held.
52 Kilometers of Love for the Country from Fatsa to Altınordu
A total of 15 brave athletes, 52 of whom were foreign nationals, participated in the 2-kilometer course that started in Fatsa district and ended in Ordu Metropolitan Municipality July 5 Democracy Square in Altınordu. Under the leadership of KoşuyORDU Sports Club President Tan Aşkan, Canadians David Vandervelde, Erdem Usta, Americans Justin Leonard and Sabri Ay achieved great success by completing this difficult stage in approximately 6 hours.
At the finish line of the race, the athletes were warmly and humorously welcomed by the youth of Ordu. Carrying banners written in the Ordu accent such as “This is so busy, I wonder where they got involved?”, “Yalooz goşman was running there”, “Epic goştular, especially these ones”, “Goşiyalar since quail”, “Look, we’ve been running for a while now?”, “We’ve come here after 52 kilometers, well done”, the youth both gave the athletes morale and relieved their fatigue. The sincere expressions on the banners brought smiles to the faces of the spectators.
President Guler: “This is not just a race, it is love of country”
After the completion of the run, Ordu Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Dr. Mehmet Hilmi Güler congratulated the athletes and thanked them for their dedication and contribution to this meaningful event. Mayor Güler emphasized that this event was not just a run, but in fact a sign of deep love for the country.
“5 beautiful people ran the 52 km distance on one of the most beautiful courses in the world, taking in the beauties of our city. I would like to congratulate each of our 52 athletes who completed the 5 km distance,” said President Güler, adding that they will meet with the federation to make this event more comprehensive in the coming years in order to further promote the city’s natural beauties and that they aim to both increase the distance and hold it with more participation. President Güler gave the good news that they have already started preparations in this direction. This special event once again showcased the loyalty and creativity of the people of Ordu to their city.
