Gold medal gift for May 19 from national athlete Şahika Ercümen

The International Freediving Tournament was held on the island of Dominica between May 5 and 15. National athlete Şahika Ercümen achieved significant success in the tournament. Ercümen placed first in the constant weight, bifins, and free immersion categories.

Winning championships with 80 meters in the bifins category, 77 meters in the free immersion category, and 77 meters in the constant weight category, athlete Şahika Ercümen stated the following regarding the tournament: 'This season started with major setbacks for me. I had health issues and underwent two separate operations.

I was looking at this tournament as a training session and preparation for the World Championship, but despite that, I am returning with very good results. Returning with a gold medal from the first tournament of the year, for which I did not feel physically ready at all, has motivated me greatly for the upcoming competitions.

'I DEDICATE THIS TO OUR MAY 19 COMMEMORATION OF ATATÜRK, YOUTH AND SPORTS DAY'

A storm broke out on the last day of the competition, and the event was almost canceled. The weather was truly terrible; the sea was rough and had strong currents. Despite the poor weather conditions, we had a very good dive. I am accepting this medal in dedication to our May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, which our Founding Father gifted to us,' she said.