The Ankara Sailing Club (AYK) hosted a magnificent gala at the Sheraton Ankara Hotel & Convention Center to commemorate its 25th anniversary. The event, held on December 23, 2025, under the main sponsorship of Akbank, gathered prominent figures from Ankara’s business, sports, and social circles, alongside media representatives, for an evening that blended the club’s rich history with optimistic aspirations for the upcoming year.
A Quarter-Century Journey: From Wilderness to the Blue
The gala, themed ‘A Journey from the Wilderness to the Blue,’ showcased AYK’s 25-year history through captivating presentations on large screens. Attendees were treated to a visual retrospective of the club’s sporting achievements, its significant contributions to sailing culture, and the enduring friendships forged over the years. The evening’s entertainment featured a stellar performance by the Musa Göçmen and Ersan Başbuğ Symphony Orchestra, which received widespread acclaim, followed by DJ Yusuf Can Karapınar, who elevated the festive atmosphere to its peak.
President Küçükgül Reflects on the Past and Looks to the Future
In his address, Sermurat Küçükgül, President of the Ankara Sailing Club, expressed his heartfelt gratitude and shared insights into the club’s journey. “Embarking on this journey 25 years ago with the wind in our sails, we didn’t just sail; we forged friendships, nurtured dreams, and brought the spirit of the sea to the heart of Ankara,” Küçükgül stated. He emphasized the significance of the evening as a unique gathering to celebrate their silver jubilee and to set sail into the new year with hope. He extended his thanks to all members, friends, and media representatives who have been integral to writing the history of the Ankara Sailing Club and witnessing its remarkable journey.
Exciting News for Sailing Enthusiasts: Hosting the Turkish Optimist Sailing League
President Küçükgül also delivered exciting news to the sailing community. “I would like to share an announcement that fills me with immense pride and excitement,” he declared. “Following the Astor ŞarJ Ankara Yelken 25th Anniversary Regatta in Marmaris, for the first time in the club’s history, we will be hosting the 2nd leg of the Turkish Sailing Federation (TYF) Optimist Sailing League Championship in Istanbul, scheduled from March 14 to March 23.” This announcement underscores AYK’s growing prominence and its commitment to fostering sailing talent.
A Symbol of Unity and Shared Goals
The 25th Anniversary Gala of the Ankara Sailing Club served as a powerful testament to unity, successfully bridging past experiences with future aspirations. The event symbolized a collective step into the new year, marked by hope, solidarity, and shared objectives within the Ankara sailing community and beyond.
Source: https://www.hurriyet.com.tr/yerel-haberler/ankara/yeni-yila-yelken-acan-kutlama-43063723
