Runkara 2024 (Ankara, October 10 - 13)

Runkara 2024 is set to take place from October 10th to 13th, bringing together elite and amateur runners from around the globe. The event, which will be held in 30 Ağustos Zafer Park, promises an exciting lineup of races, including a half marathon, a 10 km race, and a family run, with each category carefully tailored to different age groups and abilities.

The festivities kick off on Thursday, October 10th, with the opening of the Sports & Technology Expo at 11:00 AM. The Expo will serve as the hub for race kit distribution and will also host a press conference on Friday, October 11th. The Expo remains open until Sunday, providing a variety of activities and information for participants and visitors.

The highlight of the event is the race day on Sunday, October 13th. The half marathon starts at 8:00 AM, followed by the 10 km race at 9:00 AM. Elite athletes will have the chance to warm up in specially designated areas before their respective races, with live coverage beginning at 7:50 AM.

Runkara has outlined specific rules for participants to ensure a safe and fair competition. The minimum age for entry into the half marathon and 10 km races is 18 years, with younger participants permitted in the family-run only if accompanied by an adult. Runners must also adhere to strict health regulations, including COVID-19 precautions, and are required to respect all race guidelines, including wearing their start numbers visibly.

Participants can expect a well-organized event, with services such as water stations, time measurement, and health support provided throughout the course. The race will take place regardless of weather conditions, with the organizer reserving the right to adjust the start time or cancel the event in extreme cases.

The event promises not only a challenging race but also a vibrant atmosphere with music, entertainment, and warm-up activities. Runners will receive a medal, an online certificate, and access to exclusive areas as part of their race package.

L’Etape Türkiye by Tour de France (Beykoz, İstanbul, October 20)

As anticipation builds for L’Etape Türkiye by Tour de France, organizers have released detailed rules and regulations for the event, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all participants. Scheduled to take place soon, this cycling event invites amateur cyclists to test their mettle on challenging courses inspired by the legendary Tour de France.

The race features two main courses: a short course and a long course, with age categories spanning from Youth (16-18) to Master (75-79). Participants are urged to carefully review their race packs at registration and verify all personal information. Notably, youth participants will start independently and will not be included in the general classification.

Safety is a top priority, with strict regulations on the types of bicycles and equipment allowed. Only human-powered, two-wheeled bikes with functional brakes are permitted, while the use of triathlon bars, fixie bikes, or any kind of motorized assistance is prohibited. Helmets are mandatory for all riders, and race numbers must be clearly displayed on both sides of the rider’s back and under the saddle.

A neutral motorcycle escort will accompany participants throughout the race, ensuring compliance with the rules and providing first aid if needed. Feed zones will be strategically placed along the course, offering food and water to riders, who must stop to receive these provisions.

The event will feature electronic timing, with individual finishing times recorded and ranked across various categories. Riders are reminded to attach their timing transponders correctly and return them after the race. Penalties will be enforced for any rule violations, ranging from disqualification to long-term bans from future events.

The race committee will strictly enforce regulations, with a comprehensive list of penalties for infractions such as false registrations, dangerous riding, or tampering with race numbers. Violations could result in suspension from the event or even lifetime bans, depending on the severity of the offense.

Organizers have established a process for recording and addressing rule infringements, with participants encouraged to report any discrepancies or concerns. All objections will be reviewed by the organizing committee, ensuring transparency and fairness in the final race results.

Decathlon Büyükada Half Marathon (Büyükada, İstanbul, October 20)

Excitement is building as the highly anticipated Büyükada Half Marathon is set to take place on the picturesque island of Büyükada. Scheduled for Sunday, the event promises a thrilling day of competition, camaraderie, and celebration for athletes of all levels.

The race day kicks off early at 8:30 AM, with athletes gathering at the event center located at Atatürk Square, right by the pier. This vibrant hub will be the heart of the day's activities, featuring brand stands, a stage, and warm-up and cool-down sessions to keep participants energized.

The highlight of the day, the half marathon, will start at 11:00 AM from Çınar Square, in front of the Islands Cultural Association. This challenging 21.0975 km race will be followed by the 10 km Büyükada Tour at 11:15 AM and the 5 km Half Büyükada Tour at 11:30 AM. All races will take athletes through scenic routes, offering stunning views of the island's landscapes.

Participants can register for the contest by paying the participation fee, which includes a comprehensive package of services. Each athlete will receive a time measurement chip, race number, racing bag, T-shirt, participation medal, and cloakroom service. In addition, sponsor products will be available before and after the race, ensuring all participants are well-prepared and rewarded for their efforts.

The competition's timing will be meticulously tracked at three different departure points, with chips attached to each athlete's race number. Detailed instructions regarding time measurement will be provided during the kit distribution, which will take place from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM on race day.

After crossing the finish line, athletes will be greeted with a catering corridor right at the finish line, offering a selection of treats. The day will culminate in a series of award ceremonies, starting at 2:00 PM with the Half Büyükada Tour, followed by the Büyükada Tour at 2:15 PM, and finally the Büyükada Half Marathon awards at 2:30 PM.

Gökova Half Marathon 2024 (Akyaka, Muğla, October 27)

On October 27, 2024, the picturesque town of Akyaka in Muğla, Turkey, will host the Gökova Half Marathon, offering runners an unparalleled opportunity to experience the region's rich cultural and natural heritage. Nestled at the eastern end of the Gulf of Gökova, Akyaka is a hidden gem where the blend of blue and green creates a breathtaking backdrop for this prestigious race.

Akyaka, a town with a population that swells from 1,500 in winter to 3,000-4,000 in summer, is a place steeped in history. Believed to have been inhabited since ancient times, Akyaka remained a quiet fishing village until its "discovery" in the 1970s. Now, this charming town is preparing to welcome running enthusiasts from around the world for an event that promises to be as enriching as it is challenging.

The Gökova Half Marathon is not just about running—it's about embracing the natural beauty and cultural legacy of Muğla. The race offers participants a unique chance to explore this stunning region, where the Aegean Sea meets lush forests, creating a perfect harmony of blue and green.

The marathon is designed to highlight the hidden beauty of Muğla, encouraging participants to engage with the area's cultural and natural wonders while promoting sports tourism in this idyllic location.

Türkiye's sports calendar in October 2024 is packed with thrilling events that cater to diverse interests, stay tuned!