Emir Gönenç wins 10 Turkish rafting championships

Emir Gönenç, a 16-year-old rafting athlete, has secured 10 Turkish championships within three years of starting the sport. Gönenç, who survived the February 6, 2023, earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş but lost his brother during the disaster, moved to the Dalaman district of Muğla with his family.

Following a recommendation from his physical education teacher, Saniye Uyar Kırık, Gönenç joined the Sarsala Sports Club rafting team in 2023. His coach noted that he became a champion in his very first competition, winning in both mixed and men's categories. Currently serving as team captain, Gönenç is considered a candidate for the national team.