A scenic running event brought hundreds of athletes together in the western province of Aydin, where participants followed a route connecting the ancient cities of Nysa and Acharaca. The event, titled Run Nysa and organized by the Aydin Metropolitan Municipality, unfolded on the historic trails of Sultanhisar’s ancient city Nysa, known for its Roman-era structures and monumental ruins.
The race started in Nysa and carried runners along the old pathways that link the two ancient settlements. Athletes moved through a landscape defined by archaeological remains, forested paths, and rural terrain before looping back to the starting point.
Organizers noted that the aim was to introduce participants to a culturally rich environment while promoting outdoor sports.
The event drew 380 athletes, reflecting strong local interest in combining sports with heritage settings. In the men’s 10-kilometer general category, Osman Erkan Safak finished first, followed by Fatih Can in second place and Habib Temurboga in third.
In the women’s category, Ozlem Ozgun secured the top spot, with Elena Poloyakova Kirik coming second and Busra Ozdemir placing third.
Aydin Metropolitan Municipality Deputy Mayor Polat Bora Mersin remarked that they hope similar events will continue to take place in the ancient city, emphasizing the potential of the region’s archaeological heritage to host cultural and athletic gatherings.