On 1 August 2015, the Gallipoli Anzac Cove will host an international swimming event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Gallipoli.
The swimming event is an initiative of the Turkish Olympic Committee (TOC) in collaboration with the Governorship and Municipality of Çanakkale. Described as a "Peace and Friendship" event, swimmers will lie 100 peace wreaths on the Aegean Sea to honour those fallen during battle before swimming 1915 metres from a ship at sea to the shores of the Anzac Cove.
Due to the commemorative nature of the event, no race or ranking of the swimmers will take place. Instead, participants will swim side by side before being awarded with a special "Memorial’s Medal" on completion of the route. The TOC is expecting a high level of participation with many National Olympic Committees committing to send swimmers to the event. Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain - whose forces were involved in the Battle - have been invited to attend.
Speaking from Olympic House in Istanbul, TOC President Professor Dr. Uğur Erdener said:
"I am proud that the TOC is playing a role in commemorating this tragic event. It is crucial that we acknowledge the lives sadly lost during the Battle of Gallipoli and the major impact this had on history. In August we will see swimmers from all over the world swim alongside each other with friendship and respect as sport once again unifies nations in peace."
Applications can be made on the TOC’s website. For further information on the event and all entry requirements please click here.
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