Once famous for figs, Izmir (formerly Smyrna), is now
Turkey's 3rd-largest city - "capital" of the Aegean region, a major
port and commercial center set dramatically around a huge bay and
backed by mountains to the south.
The city, known as "Beautiful
Izmir", is the "birthplace" of some very interesting facts ...
- Izmir was established at least 5000 years ago.
- Epic poet Homer (9th century BC), the author of
"the Iliad and the Odyssey", was born in Izmir.
- Three of the "Seven Churches" mentioned in the Bible are in
Izmir.
- One of the Seven Wonders of Antiquity, the Temple of Artemis,
is located at Ephesus.
- The earliest temple dedicated to the goddess Athena was
constructed in Izmir.
- Alexander the Great was told by Aristo, the philosopher,
"If you do not see Smyrna, you remain lacking".
- St. John wrote the Bible at Ephesus and died
there.
Twenty-nine (29) countries, 109 athletes,
and scores of delegates, officials and supporters came to Izmir to
participate in the 2003 European Women's Bodybuilding, Fitness
& Body Fitness Championships and International Men's
Fitness Championships.
The
Princess Hotel Izmir (Balcova)
Everyone was warmly welcomed by the Turkish
federation upon arrival at the Adnan Menderes Airport and were
quickly transported to the official hotel - the Princess Hotel
Izmir. The Secretariat did a great job greeting and registering all
participants without delay. Once settled into their rooms, everyone
was keen to try out the famous Turkish food. No one was disappointed
as the food, served buffet style, was plentiful and tasteful.
The Championships were held at the Izmir
Ataturk Sport Hall, with about 2,000 fans in attendance at the
Prejudging on Saturday, May 24th, and about 5,000 at the
Finals on Sunday, May 25th.
The
Parade of Nations during the Opening Ceremony
at the Izmir Ataturk Sport Hall
The IFBB and the European Bodybuilding &
Fitness Federation (EBFF) wish to commend the Turkish Organizing
Committee for their diligance and hard work in ensuring the success
of these Championships. Under the capable leadership of
Ereytis Kultaral, president of the Turkish
federation, the Organizing Committee members were always ready,
willing and able to carry out their competition duties in a most
professional and competent manner.
Rafael Santonja,
EBFF President and Executive Assistant to IFBB President Weider,
presenting an award to Ereytis Kultaral,
president of the Turkish Bodybuilding Federation
It is worthy to note that, in 1998, the
Turkish federation organized and hosted a memorable Men's World
Amateur Bodybuilding Championships & IFBB International
Congress, also in Izmir.
Once again, congratulations to the Turkish
federation and its Organizing Committee for a job well done!
