The 26th International Arena AquaChallenge Swimming Championship – Kaş Stage Concludes with Great Success and Enthusiasm

Kaş, Antalya – The breathtaking turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the unifying power of sport, and the endless energy of swimming enthusiasts came together to create an unforgettable atmosphere during the 26th International Arena AquaChallenge Swimming Championship – Kaş Stage, held on 6–7 June. Hundreds of athletes from across Türkiye and around the world competed in the crystal-clear waters of Kaş, creating a sporting celebration worthy of both nature and athletic excellence.

Hosted by Setur Kaş Marina and Doria Beach Club, the championship successfully brought together sport, endurance, and friendship in an unforgettable open-water swimming event.

Combining the beauty of nature with the spirit of competition, the organization offered participants not only a race, but also a truly memorable experience.

As part of the event, athletes competed across nine different championships and races:

  • Opel Mokka Open Water Swimming Championship – 1K
  • Opel Frontera Open Water Swimming Championship – 2K
  • Opel Grandland Open Water Swimming Championship – 3K
  • Shell Open Water Swimming Championship – 5K
  • Setur Marinas Open Water Swimming Championship – 10K
  • Shell 300-Metre Night Swim
  • Servet 4x400-Metre Mixed Relay Race
  • The Beaver Cafe 3x400-Metre Women's Relay Race
  • Laps 3x400-Metre Men's Relay Race

Throughout the championships, athletes delivered outstanding performances and provided spectators with exciting and memorable moments.

In addition to the daytime races, the Shell 300-Metre Night Swim, held against the enchanting evening backdrop of Kaş, became one of the most colorful and unforgettable highlights of the event. Swimming under the lights offered participants a unique open-water experience while attracting significant interest from spectators.

The relay races, where teamwork took center stage, showcased not only individual athletic performance but also strategy, coordination, and team spirit. The Servet Mixed Relay Race, The Beaver Cafe Women's Relay Race, and Laps Men's Relay Race stood out as some of the most competitive and highly applauded events of the championship.

For years, the International Arena AquaChallenge Swimming Championships have contributed to the development of open-water swimming in Türkiye. This year's event once again provided athletes with an international-standard racing experience while promoting the natural beauty, cultural richness, and tourism potential of Kaş to a wide audience. Throughout the organization, athlete safety, environmental sustainability, and participant satisfaction remained top priorities.

Every Stroke Became a Story of Achievement

Throughout the races held in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, athletes competed not only for rankings and medals, but also to demonstrate their courage, determination, and passion for sport. Every swimmer who crossed the finish line became part of a success story that embodied the true spirit of the championship.

We extend our sincere thanks to all athletes, volunteers, referees, supporting institutions and organizations, sponsors, and the people of Kaş who contributed to the success of the 26th International Arena AquaChallenge Swimming Championship – Kaş Stage.

This remarkable sporting celebration, held in the heart of the Mediterranean and the turquoise waters of Kaş, has now taken its place in the memories of all participants and spectators. We look forward to meeting again for new goals and new challenges at the upcoming championships in Marmaris and Göcek on 24–26 October.