Akyaka Canyon in Kars Completes National Rafting Training Program

From 26 July to 2 August, the Akyaka Canyon in Kars hosted a nine‑day Rafting Basic Training Program organized by the Turkish Canoe Federation. Around 60 athletes from provinces such as Diyarbakır, Bingöl, Tunceli and Ordu received theoretical instruction on river anatomy, safety and rescue techniques, followed by practical paddling on the canyon’s strong currents.

The closing ceremony was attended by Kars Governor Ziya Polat, Kaymakam İsmail Demirtaş and other local officials. Coach Oğuzhan Ateş praised the canyon’s “magnificent flow and natural beauty,” while participant Nurşin Yılmaz expressed hope that a future Turkey Championship stage will be held there. Governor Polat also rode a rafting boat on the final day, underscoring the region’s ambition to become a national and international water‑sports destination.

The program aims to boost sport tourism in Kars, positioning Akyaka Canyon for larger competitions and increased visitor activity.