About 100,000 spectators come to Sarayici, near Edirne, every year, when one of the most famous Turkish sporting events takes place over one week. On the first day, even at ten o´clock in the morning, it will be really crowded as the event begins.
The sportsmen shake hands, lay down on the ground and kiss the earth. They will then turn around to face each other. They start by watching each other. Then, moving towards each other, they clap their hands and reach out one arm. Then the man-to-man battle will start. All their body is covered with oil, so it is really difficult for them to grip each other. They wear only leather trousers with no shirt. Usually, after about 30 minutes, one of the wrestlers will be exhausted and will fall to the ground. If his opponent has put him down like that, he will be winner. It takes about 3 days before the winners of all 300 classes are decided.
This is a spectacular annual event, featuring about 800 wrestlers.
This style of Turkish wrestling is very well-known on the international championship circuit.
A Wrestling Legend
The legendary oil wrestler Kurtdereli Mehmet, from the village of Kurtdere, was famous all over the world. He pleased President Mustafa Kemal Atatürk so much with his words that Atatürk sent him a letter.To the wrestler Mehmet of Kurtdere;
I have come to know you as a wrestler of world renown. I have also learned that you describe the secret behind your success in the following words:
"In every wrestling match, I picture the Turkish nation supporting me, and I think of our national honour".
I admire what you say as much as your deeds. Therefore, I am recording your statement to be used as a professional maxim for all Turkish sportsmen to demonstrate how pleased I am with what you say.
Enclosed is a gift for you and your children.
I wish you a long, healthy life.
Kemal Atatürk
