The 38th Bosphorus Intercontinental Swimming Race has kicked off in Istanbul, bringing together thousands of swimmers for one of the world’s most distinctive open-water competitions.
Organised by the the annual race sees participants swim across the Bosphorus from the Asian side of Istanbul to the European side.
Around 2,500 swimmers from more than 80 countries are taking part in this year’s event, highlighting the international appeal of the race.
TRT World correspondent Yunus Demiroglu, reporting from Istanbul, said participants began the approximately 6.5-kilometre course from Kanlica on the Asian side before heading towards the finish line in Kurucesme on the European shore.
“This is, of course, one of the most unique swimming races in the world because participants are literally swimming from one continent to another, from Asia to Europe,” Demiroglu said.
Maritime traffic through the Bosphorus was temporarily suspended during the competition to ensure the safety of swimmers as they crossed one of the world’s busiest waterways.
Spectators gathered along the European shoreline to watch competitors complete the challenging route and welcome them as they emerged from the water.
The event brings together professional and amateur swimmers, with participants navigating the Bosphorus currents as they make their way between the two continents.
The race has grown significantly since it was first held in 1989, when just 68 swimmers participated.
Over the decades, it has developed into a major international sporting event and one of Istanbul’s most recognisable annual competitions, combining open-water swimming with the city’s unique geography.
The Bosphorus, which divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, provides the setting for swimmers to complete the rare feat of crossing continents under their own power.
The event created a colourful spectacle as swimmers took to the waters between Istanbul’s Asian and European sides.
Some participants displayed Palestinian flags on the ferry carrying them to the starting area, expressing support for Palestine.
