Bosphorous Cross Continental Races from Asia to Europe which were organized by the NOCT first in 1989 with 4 women and 64 men continue to draw more attention each year. These races monitored by the International Olympic Committee and organized in line with the motto “Sports for Everyone” are the leading sports activities of NOCT.

Istanbul  being based on the continents of Europe and Asia and divided by the “Bosphorus” allows these races to be performed as a public sport. The world’s first and only intercontinental swimming race is performed on this channel.

It is a very exciting  experience for the participants to swim across the channel from Asia to Europe together as a massive group. Every year hundreds of non-professional swimmers participate and they claim that they look forward to the following year’s race.

Because of swimmer safety issues, the number of participants is limited by the decision of the Executive Council. In the past years, this limit is reached before the first day of registration ends. This proves us that people show more and more interest to the races every year.

Sports competitions have to be made within certain rules and regulations. Thus, the Bosphorous Swimming Race which is performed in a 6,5 km, tough route has its own rules.

A handbook of rules and principles prepared by the NOCT is presented to the participants. The swimmer by his/her nomination has accepted to obey these rules.

Click here for Bosphorous Cross Continental  Races website.