More than 2800 swimmers from 81 countries faced strong currents on Sunday, 24.08.25, during the 37th edition of the Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race, completing a 6.5-kilometer course that connects Asia with Europe across Istanbul’s iconic Bosphorus Strait.
source: Facebook profile Boğaziçi Kıtalararası Yüzme Yarışı
The annual race, organized by the Turkish National Olympic Committee (TMOK) with the support of the Istanbul governorate, metropolitan authorities, 26 public institutions, and several NGOs, has become one of the most prestigious open water swimming events in the world.
source: Facebook profile Boğaziçi Kıtalararası Yüzme Yarışı
source: Facebook profile Boğaziçi Kıtalararası Yüzme Yarışı
Participants were transported by boat to the starting point in Kanlıca on the Asian side, from where they jumped into the Bosphorus.
Fighting variable currents and choppy water, the swimmers reached the finish line at Kuruçeşme Cemil Topuzlu Park on the European side, where awards were presented during the ceremony.
source: private archive of Piotrek Baluta
What began in 1989 with just 68 swimmers is now considered the most prestigious open water swimming competition in the world.
In 2016, the event was recognized by the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) as the “Best Open Water Swimming Event of the Year,” and in 2019 it was included in the list of the “100 Best Open Water Swimming Races in the World.”
source: Facebook profile Boğaziçi Kıtalararası Yüzme Yarışı
Our employee Piotr Baluta from the Datalogic department had the opportunity to take part in this prestigious swimming event. Here is how he recalls the race:
source: private archive of Piotrek Baluta
- 2800 swimmers spread out on three large ships – that’s a truly impressive number. It was an incredible experience to be among people who share the same passion for swimming and to feel the unique atmosphere of the competition. In the middle of the strait, there is a strong current toward the Sea of Marmara, and the participants’ task is to navigate properly – to use the power of the current but at the same time turn toward the finish in time so as not to be carried away further. I expected icy water, but it turned out to be perfect – around 24 degrees. The view of Istanbul from this perspective and the moment of swimming under the majestic Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge made a huge impression on me. The whole race was an unforgettable experience for me, one that I hope to repeat someday.
Congratulations to Piotrek and best wishes for further success!
Thank you also for proudly representing the company everywhere and always 😊
More information on the official organizer’s website: https://www.swimtrek.com/packages/swimming-holiday-bosphorus-cross-continental-swim
