Racing to Gallipoli: ANZAC Day Comes Early for Bevin and Strong in Tour of Turkey
The Tour of Turkey’s sixth stage concludes in Gallipoli, a significant location for Australians and New Zealanders due to the First World War. Over ten thousand ANZAC soldiers lost their lives in the disastrous battle against the Ottoman Empire on the shores of the Turkish island.
Gallipoli holds historical importance for New Zealand, as it is where the ANZACs, comprising 65,000 soldiers, faced defeat during the First World War. Corbin Strong, a rider for Israel – Premier Tech, recalls the event from his high school education, stating, “The Brits, French, Aussies, and Kiwis; the last two armies were called the ANZACs and consisted of 65,000 soldiers, who came by boat to secure a route to Russia. After eight months, the coalition of countries retreated, having lost hundreds of thousands of people.”
ANZAC Day, which falls just a few days after stage 6 of the Tour of Turkey on April 25th, is a significant day of remembrance for New Zealand and Australia. Finishing in Gallipoli carries special meaning for riders from New Zealand, including Patrick Bevin and Corbin Strong, who are part of the Israel – Premier Tech team in the race. Performance coach Greg Henderson, who has participated in the Tour of Turkey in the past, emphasizes the importance of ANZAC Day, stating, “It surpasses Armistice Day. Anzac Day is also a public holiday.”
The treacherous mines laid by the Ottoman Empire in the seas surrounding the Dardanelles strait played a crucial role in the events at Gallipoli. These mines resulted in the sinking of numerous ships and submarines, causing a high number of casualties.
Patrick Bevin expresses the significance of racing in Gallipoli, considering it an “early ANZAC day” for the team in Turkey. Bevin is also in contention for the stage win in Gallipoli and holds a strong position in the general classification.
Editor’s note: This article provides a brief summary of the events that occurred in Gallipoli over several months.
