Around 2,000 people gathered in the high plateau town of Seki on Sunday 14 August to watch the annual oil wrestling event.

The oil wrestling event was the highlight of a three day festival held in the high plateau (Yayla) town of Seki. Seki is a popular summer retreat for many Fethiye residents who visit their Yayla properties to escape the intense heat of the town.  There were many familiar faces from town at the event including the Mayor of Fethiye, Behcet Saatci.

On our arrival at midday the event was already in full swing and free seats scarce. The junior competitors were in the final stages of finishing their bouts and the medical staff already in repair mode treating minor cuts and injuries on the side lines. It’s a tough sport even at the junior level!

Meanwhile the senior competitors were gathering at the top of the stadium to begin their bouts. They all start by performing their elaborate warm up routines striding, jumping, arms swinging wide as they cross the stadium pitch. They finish the routine with a high jump, shout and then fall to their knees where they almost appear to scoop up good luck from the ground. They then turn to their opponent and begin their bout in front of the watchful eye of a referee.

The main event provided some great action for local supporters with the Fethiye and Ölüdeniz wrestlers winning their initial bouts in great style. With prize money of up to 1,000 GBP on offer there was everything to play for!

Keep an eye on our Events Calendar to find out when other local events will be held. With such a rich culture there’s always something new to see in this wonderful area of Turkey.