Open-water swimming races will be held in Ölüdeniz on October 10–11
According to the Ölüdeniz Open Water 2026 schedule, the races will take place on October 10 and 11. Separate start times have been set for the 1-, 2-, and 6-kilometer races, as well as for the relay races.
This article was translated automatically from Turkish. Türkçe orijinal ›
The schedule for the open-water swimming event to be held in the Ölüdeniz neighborhood of Fethiye has been announced. According to the official calendar, the races will take place on October 10 and 11, 2026.
Different start times by distance
Separate start times for different distances and relay races have been announced on the event’s race page. According to the schedule, the 1-kilometer race will start at 11:30 a.m. on October 10, while the 2-kilometer race will begin at 1:00 p.m. Separate start times have been set for the relay races in the afternoon.
The 6-kilometer leg on Sunday morning
The 6-kilometer stage—the event’s longest distance—is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 11. The decision to hold the long-distance stage early in the morning is attributed to the possibility of sea conditions changing throughout the day.
Course and safety are planned together
In open-water events, the course, sea conditions, and safety measures are evaluated together. Lifeguard teams, along with boat and canoe support, will be stationed in the race area. The course is marked with buoys to ensure athletes do not stray off course.
Warning for Participants
Participants should check the latest announcement for their specific distance and avoid assuming that all races start at the same time. The event’s date and time information, as well as whether registration is open, are evaluated separately; it is recommended to refer to the organizer’s most recent announcement for participation requirements. The Air Games Festival will also be held in Ölüdeniz this month. Both events are cited as activities that help extend the season in the district.
What is open-water swimming?
Open-water swimming is defined as a swimming discipline practiced in natural bodies of water—such as the sea, lakes, or rivers—rather than in a pool. Variables such as waves, currents, and water temperature directly affect the athlete’s performance. For this reason, it is recommended to scout the course before the race and select appropriate swimwear and equipment.
Ölüdeniz Offers Favorable Conditions
Ölüdeniz is considered one of the most suitable locations for open-water races due to its sheltered structure and calm water surface. The fact that sea water temperatures remain high in the fall boosts participation in events held in October. Temporary arrangements may be made in the coastal area during the races. Spectators wishing to watch the event can do so from the shoreline.
