Ordu, once primarily known for its fishing industry, is rapidly transforming into a center for water sports, thanks to the ambitious vision and investments of Ordu Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Dr. Mehmet Hilmi Güler. In just five years, the province has shifted from using its seas solely for fishing to becoming a hotspot for activities such as surfing, sailing, and canoeing. The Durgun Water Sports Center, in particular, now hosts national and international competitions, further solidifying Ordu’s growing reputation in the field of water sports.
The initiative, led by Mayor Güler, to integrate water sports into the city’s culture is gaining momentum. Canoeing and sailing have become especially popular among the city’s youth, turning Ordu into a burgeoning base for water-based activities.
Strategic Steps Leading to Success
Ordu’s rise in water sports began with the establishment of the Sailing and Canoe Club under the Ordu Metropolitan Municipality Sports Club, providing essential facilities for aspiring athletes. In 2020, the “Sailing and Canoe Education Project” was launched to foster greater interest in water sports among children and young people. This initiative laid the groundwork for Ordu’s emergence as a recognized name in water sports, offering training and educational programs designed to cultivate the next generation of athletes.
Sailing and Canoe Training Expands Across the Province
To further develop professional athletes, the Metropolitan Municipality has extended its sailing and canoeing programs throughout the year. Summer schools in these sports have been established across Ordu’s coastal districts, allowing residents to engage with water sports during the warmer months. Beyond the coastline, training sessions are also held in high-altitude districts on meanders, lakes, dams, and streams. These efforts ensure that young people from various regions of Ordu are introduced to sailing and canoeing, expanding the reach of these sports throughout the province.
Wave Surfing Introduced to Ordu
Not content with just sailing and canoeing, Ordu has also entered the world of wave surfing. The introduction of the Wave Surfing Center in Efirli marked a significant milestone in the city’s water sports development. Spearheaded by Mayor Güler, the center aims to position the Black Sea as a competitive location for surfing. Since its establishment, the Wave Surfing Center has sparked a surge of interest in surfing, offering training at various times of the year and encouraging local participation in the sport.
Durgun Water Sports Center Elevates Ordu’s Status
As interest in sailing, canoeing, and surfing continues to grow, the Ordu Metropolitan Municipality has made further investments to enhance the professionalism of these sports. The Durgun Water Sports Center and Camping Area, situated near Ordu-Giresun Airport in the Gülyalı district, is now a premier destination for water sports in Turkey. It is the only facility of its kind in the country, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. Since its opening, the center has hosted numerous competitions and has become a key driver in Ordu’s ambition to become a leader in water sports.
A New Generation Drawn to Water Sports
Thanks to Mayor Güler’s leadership and the municipality’s commitment to water sports development, a growing number of children and young people are embracing activities like surfing, sailing, and canoeing. Ordu’s transformation into a water sports hub is now well underway, with the city making a name for itself both nationally and internationally.
This strategic focus on water sports is not only reshaping Ordu’s identity but also offering its residents new opportunities for recreation, competition, and community engagement.