Mayor Eşki Praises Families Who Guide Young People Through Sport

Bornova Municipality continues to support Turkish sport and the champions of tomorrow. The Turkish Taekwondo Federation’s highly anticipated Annual Black Belt Dan Examinations were held with great enthusiasm at the Altındağ Atatürk Sports Complex, hosted by Bornova Municipality. Candidates taking their first step toward earning a black belt, as well as athletes seeking higher Dan grades, gathered in Bornova to demonstrate their skills.

Nearly 600 Athletes from Across Türkiye Gathered in Bornova

The event attracted nearly 600 taekwondo athletes from all across Türkiye, extending far beyond İzmir and the Aegean Region. Families, coaches, and numerous sports enthusiasts joined the competitors, sharing in the excitement of the examinations. Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki visited the venue, observed the examinations, and wished every athlete success.

Mayor Eşki: “Sport Is the Strongest Shield Protecting Our Youth”

Addressing the athletes and the families filling the stands, Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized the vital role that sport plays in protecting young people from harmful influences and negative habits. He stated:

“Dear parents, dear athletes, and our distinguished guests from every corner of Türkiye, it is a great pleasure and honor to welcome you to Bornova. I know you are all eagerly waiting to see your children rewarded for their hard work and dedication. I will not take much of your time, but I would like to emphasize one important point: At a time when many young people in Türkiye face serious risks such as crime and substance abuse, I sincerely thank all the parents who encourage their children to participate in sports and who bring them to facilities like this. I have the greatest respect for mothers and fathers who make such selfless efforts to protect their children from harmful influences and guide them toward positive opportunities.”

Mayor Eşki also acknowledged the dedication of the coaches, adding:

“I would also like to express my gratitude to our esteemed coaches who instill discipline and devote themselves to educating our young people. Dear children, never lose your connection with this wonderful sport. Always remember that the families who brought you here today will continue to support you throughout your journey. It is an honor for us to host you in Bornova. Welcome, and I wish you all every success.”

Turkish Taekwondo Federation Thanks Bornova Municipality

Ramazan Akçadağ, Advisor to the President of the Turkish Taekwondo Federation and Examination Observer, highlighted the international success of Turkish taekwondo.

“This year, both our national teams and our clubs achieved historic successes at the World and European levels in taekwondo, an individual sport. Sustaining these achievements is directly linked to the support provided by local governments. We extend our sincere thanks to Bornova Municipality and Mayor Ömer Eşki for their outstanding hospitality during these examinations and for their continued commitment to supporting sport and athletes.”