ANKARA

The 2022 Arkas Optimist World Championship continued Thursday in the Turkish Aegean tourist hub of Bodrum in Mugla province. 

It is of the most prestigious sailing tournaments organized by the International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA).

The Cortege walk for the games Sailing Races in Bodrum will take place until July 7.

Hosted by the Bodrumspor Sailing Club of Bodrum Municipality, with support of the Bodrum Municipality and in cooperation with IODA International Optimist Dinghy Association and Turkish Sailing Federation, the 2022 tournament started with the participation of 283 athletes from 62 countries.

"The atmosphere is beautiful. As the district governor of Bodrum, I am very happy and proud to welcome you here in this environment, where cool winds blow. I hope it will be a great race," Bilgehan Bayar said as he welcomed sailors and their families.

The mayor of Bodrum, Ahmet Aras, said: "The peace and friendship greetings will be sent from Bodrum to the world.”

He wished success to the athletes.

Vice President of IODA Carmen Casco said the most successful athletes in each country also race and have new friends from all over the world.

"I would like to thank the Turkish Sailing Federation, the organization committee and our sponsor, Arkas," he said.

The tournament will end with the closing and award ceremony July 7 at Bodrum Castle.