118th anniversary celebrations held at Galatasaray

A series of celebrations were organized for the 118th anniversary of the founding of Galatasaray Sports Club. First, the grave of the club's founder, Ali Sami Yen, at Feriköy Cemetery was visited, and a wreath was laid at the Taksim Republic Monument. Later, the event moved to Galatasaray High School, where the activities held in the Tevfik Fikret Hall were attended by Galatasaray President Dursun Özbek, Galatasaray Council Board President Aykutalp Derkan, Galatasaray Education Foundation President İnan Kıraç, members of the board of directors, club members, and athletes from various branches.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Dursun Özbek expressed his happiness in celebrating the 118th anniversary of the yellow-red club, stating, "Our club was founded more than a century ago by Ali Sami Yen and his friends with the goal and will to defeat non-Turkish teams. Today, all Galatasaray fans continue to pursue this goal tirelessly and without rest. This year is very valuable to us as it marks the 100th anniversary of the Republic entrusted to us by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. I am also filled with great pride and happiness to be the president of Galatasaray Club in this special year. With its glorious history, its free-thinking and free-conscience stance, and its unique achievements, Galatasaray is the most valuable sports club of our Republic and the face of the Republic. Galatasaray grows stronger and larger with every victory it achieves. With the victories we win, a brand new generation is becoming Galatasaray fans right before our eyes. I am happy to witness the love for Galatasaray growing from generation to generation in this way. Now, a greater responsibility falls upon me and my colleagues. Our most important duty is to ensure that this new generation is always smiling thanks to Galatasaray. We promise once again that we will fight tirelessly for this. Here is to many more 118th years. Long live Galatasaray," he said.

Following the speeches, the most senior member attending the event, 74-year-old Mehmet Ali İrtemçelik, attached the 118th-anniversary plaque to the age log. During the organization, certificates and medals were also presented to members who have completed their 50th year of council membership.

The celebrations concluded with a ceremony for the delivery of the awards and trophies won this year to the museum.

News Source: 12punto