Launch of the 2024 Girne Half Marathon

The Girne Half Marathon has been launched with a Total of TL 435,000 in Prize Money.

The 'Pasha Group Girne Half Marathon 2024,' organized by Girne Municipality for the fifth time this year, will take place on Sunday, September 22. The press conference for the event, which will be organised by Girne Municipality and the main sponsorship of Pasha Group, was held on Tuesday, August 27, at the Grand Pasha Hotel in Girne with the participation of all sponsors.

During the meeting, Girne Mayor Murat Şenkul, Pasha Group Board Member Ömer Bilgiç, General Secretary of the Turkish Cypriot Athletics Federation Derya Atamer, and Girnme Municipality Sports Unit Officer Seran Kaşif gave speeches. After the speeches, the press conference provided an opportunity for all sponsors to speak, and the guests then attended a dinner organized for them.

Şenkul: "We Owe A Debt of Gratitude to All Sponsors Who Contributed"

Girne Mayor Murat Şenkul began his speech by explaining that the decision to hold this year's Girne Half Marathon in September was influenced by the marathon calendar in the country. Şenkul noted that athletes need a certain period of rest for such long-distance races and mentioned that they had to consider these matters.  Another reason was the complete readiness of the Ancient Harbour and its connection to the Kordonboyu, and the last reason was the Girne Arkın Group Fest24, which lasted 40 days and had a very busy schedule. Şenkul emphasized that sports, along with culture and art, were part of the Girne Arkın Group Fest24, and expressed hope that this year’s timing would lead to the Girne Half Marathon becoming a part of future festival periods.

"This Year, Additional Support Will Be Provided to Primary Schools"

Şenkul pointed out that last year's Girne Half Marathon was held for the benefit of our beloved animal friends and announced that this year, it will also support building assistance for schools within the borders of Girne Municipality. He noted that the pilot school for this initiative is Karaoğlanoğlu Primary School, the first school to make a request, and mentioned that other needy schools would receive support according to the budget. Şenkul emphasized the importance of social responsibility projects for the well-being of Girne and stated, "We owe a debt of gratitude to all sponsors who contributed."

Bilgiç: "We Place Great Importance on Such Events"

Ömer Bilgiç, Board Member of Pasha Group, began his speech by expressing their happiness at sponsoring the Girne Half Marathon again this year, as they do every year. He thanked Girne Mayor Şenkul for organizing such an event and highlighted Pasha Group's commitment to such activities. Bilgiç expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the organization on behalf of Pasha Group.

Kaşif: "A Total of 435,000 Tl in Prize Money Will Be Awarded"

Seran Kaşif, Girne Municipality Sports Unit Officer announced that the first race will start with the 21K run at 06:45, followed by the 10K at 07:00 and the 3K at 10:45. Kaşif noted that registrations for the 21K (750 TL) and 10K (500 TL) can currently be made online at www.alivex.com, while registrations for the 3K (150 TL) can be done at the Girne Municipality, Girne local offices, and on the race day.

He also mentioned that this year, competitors in the 9 age categories will participate in the 21K and 10K races. The races will be conducted with a chip system and referee oversight, with results announced immediately. Kaşif announced that there will be a total of 435,000 TL in prize money for general age categories, which is a new addition compared to last year. He concluded by noting the strong interest from athletes in Turkey and thanked everyone who contributed to the organization.

Atamer: "The Aim is to Provide Young Athletes with Opportunities to Compete on International Platforms"

General Secretary of the Turkish Cypriot Athletics Federation, Derya Atamer, emphasized that the aim of these annual events is to provide young athletes with opportunities to compete on international platforms. She thanked Girne Mayor Murat Şenkul and all contributors for laying the groundwork for this.

Source (Turkish): Girne Municipality
https://cyprusscene.com/2024/08/30/launch-of-the-2024-girne-half-marathon/