Soil from Atatürk's birthplace in Thessaloniki brought to Türkiye

The ceremonial handover was organized by the Western Thrace Turkish Solidarity Association and the District Governorate of İpsala. The soil was transported by car from the Turkish Consulate in Komotini to the İpsala Border Gate, where an official ceremony was held.

The event commenced with a moment of silence and the Turkish national anthem. During the ceremony, İpsala District Governor Ömer Sevgili announced that the soil would be delivered to Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Atatürk in Ankara.

“This is one of the most meaningful events of the May 19 celebrations,” Sevgili stated. “The Atatürk Memorial and Peace Run held today stands as a symbol of unity—not only within the borders of the Republic of Türkiye but also with our compatriots beyond the border.”

He emphasized that the soil would be entrusted to athletes participating in a commemorative run. “This program is a manifestation of our unity and solidarity. It sends a strong message to the youth. Our master athletes, whose spirits remain young, will cover 737 kilometers over three days,” he added.

“May 19 is a turning point in Türkiye history”

Aykut Ünal, Turkish Consul General in Komotini, underlined Atatürk’s unwavering belief in the power of youth. “May 19 marks a historic milestone for the Turkish nation. It represents the triumph of determination and resilience,” he said, wishing the athletes well in their journey.

Hasan Küçük, President of the Western Thrace Turkish Solidarity Association, expressed pride in being part of the event, stating: “This is not merely a symbolic journey. It powerfully expresses our shared memory as a nation, our spirit of unity, and our unwavering commitment to the values of the Republic.”

Following the speeches, the soil wrapped in a Turkish flag was officially handed over to athletes from the Istanbul Masters Athletics Sports Club by District Governor Sevgili. The athletes then began their run across Türkiye, carrying the symbolic soil in a powerful tribute to the nation's founding leader.