2011 WU Update: Universiade Torch in Taksim

Students carrying the Universiade Torch

ERZURUM – The WU Torch Relay kicked-off in İstanbul. After the ceremony held in İstanbul, the Torch headed to Bursa and from there the Torch will travel to Erzurum.

The Ceremony started from Beyoğlu İstiklal Street, with the torch carried by university students. The Ceremony was attended by the State Minister Responsible for Sports Faruk Nafız Özak. Many University and High school students participated in the event.

Authorities Participate together with Students

The authorities join the students

Students participating in the Torch Relay which started from Tünel, brought the Universiade Torch from İstiklal Street to Taksim. While students reached Taksim Square, Sports Minister Faruk Nafız Özak, General Coordinator Bekir Korkmaz, Avea CEO Erkan Akdemir and İstanbul Provincial Director of Youth and Sports Tamer Taşpınar joined them in the relay.

AVEA CEO Akdemir: ‘Doors will opened for Major Sports Events’

Mr. Akdemir, CEO of AVEA, the main sponsor of the Torch Relay stated: ‘Turkey is living the excitement of hosting the Winter Universiade and has the capacity to host major sports events. Staging these Winter Games for the first time in Erzurum is a success story which will always be remembered. In other words, while athletes of this country will gain success on the sports field, these Games will also open the doors for other major sports events.’

Games Co-ordinator Korkmaz: ‘We are working for Turkey’s Major Dream’

‘At this moment huge works are continuing in Erzurum. We really are working hard. With the constructed facilities and our trained staff we have the abilities to successfully host the Winter Universiade. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us for the success of this organisation.’

Minister Özak: ‘I Hope Some Day this Torch will become the Torch of the Winter Olympics’

Mr. Özak stated in his speech that, today was a significant and a proud day on behalf of Turkey. ‘Turkey has hosted major organisations in the recent years. This is also your achievement. We are grateful to the Turkish nation. There are less than 50 days left to the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Universiade. We’ll be hosting WU games in Erzurum. I hope that some day this torch will become the torch of the Winter Olympics. I wish you a successful organisation.’

Torch will Tour the 19 Provinces

After the torch was lit in İstanbul, it will tour the 7 regions of Turkey and finally reach Erzurum. After the Concert of Rock Band Gripin held at İstanbul Marmara University, the Universiade Event Truck will travel to the 19 provinces to finally arrive in Erzurum. The Universities where the event truck will stop will stage various activities to promote the 25th Winter Universiade.

(Source: 2011 WU Media)