THE 37TH BODRUM CUP KICKS OFF WITH THE TRADITIONAL BELL CEREMONY

Dear Members,

The 37th Bodrum Cup officially began with its traditional bell ceremony held on the evening of October 20.
For the first time this year, the race headquarters is located at Yalıkavak Marina, where the event started with great enthusiasm and participation.

Chairman of The Bodrum Cup Organizing Committee, Süleyman Uysal, spoke during the ceremony about the race’s new route and theme:

“We have changed our route from Leros to Iasos. Our 63-member committee unanimously made this decision, because if one of us is missing, we are all incomplete. We are working as one heart to keep alive the most important festival born from these lands.

Our theme this year, ‘For Generations’, reflects our belief that sustainability is not only about protecting the environment but also about carrying our values, culture, and love for the sea into the future. For 37 years, The Bodrum Cup has created value for Bodrum, and we are committed to ensuring that this legacy endures for generations to come.”

Honorary President of The Bodrum Cup, Erman Aras, emphasized that since 1988, the event has not only been a regatta but also a cultural value introducing Bodrum’s maritime heritage to the world:

“It is a great source of pride to see how this event has grown over the years and become an international brand. The training ship STS Bodrum continues to inspire young sailors even today. This year, under the motto ‘For Generations’, we will once again sail the blue coves of the Aegean with the winds of friendship and sharing.”

Aras also announced that he has handed over the presidency of the Era Sailing Club, which he has chaired for many years, to Hasan Subaşı, describing the transition as “a reflection of trust in the younger generation and the most meaningful embodiment of this year’s ‘For Generations’ theme.”

Bodrum Commodore David Dean expressed his honor to be back in Bodrum and wished all competitors success in the races.

Bodrum District Governor Ali Sırmalı, referencing the famous “Fisherman of Halicarnassus,” said:

“Bodrum, with its sea, nature, history, and culture, is the gem of both our country and the world. I thank everyone who contributed to this organization and wish all sailors fair winds and following seas.”

Muğla Metropolitan Mayor Ahmet Aras highlighted Bodrum’s deep-rooted maritime tradition:

“For 37 years, you have sustained this festival with the same energy, adding great value to Bodrum. This event is not just a race—it is a tribute to the past and a legacy for the future.”

Bodrum Mayor Tamer Mandalinci underlined how The Bodrum Cup reflects the city’s cultural identity:

“The Bodrum Cup is a manifesto of friendship and peace. The Bodrum brand lies in the unique spirit where the wind meets the sail. Seamanship is a tradition passed down through generations, and The Bodrum Cup keeps this heritage alive.”

Mayor Mandalinci also announced that a special award dedicated to the legendary master of Bodrum gulets and tirhandils, Erol Ağan, has been designed this year:

“Our inspiration comes from The Bodrum Cup’s globally recognized circle of love. This year, we have established the ‘Bodrum Municipality Erol Ağan – Çolak Erol Special Award.’”

Bodrum Chamber of Commerce (BODTO) Chairman Mahmut Serdar Kocadon shared his thoughts on the event:

“As BODTO, we are proud to be among the supporters of The Bodrum Cup—a brand born in Bodrum that has reached international recognition. We are delighted that this event continues to promote our city’s maritime heritage around the world. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved and wish all sailors fair winds and a joyful week of racing.”