OIL WRESTLING HISTORY

The history of the oil wrestling tournaments links back to the Persian Era, a period starting from 1065 BC according to Ferdowsi's Shahnameh. The legendary pehlivan (wrestler) of this era is Rostam, constantly saving his country from the evil forces.
This is one of the most popular sports in Turkey.Yagli gures means literally oiled wrestling. The wrestlers wear tight short leather trousers called "Kispet", made of water buffalo leather weighing approximately 13 kilograms, and they cover themselves with olive oil. Matches take place throughout the country but the most famous and most important tournament takes place in Edirne by the end of June and beginning of July. In 2009, the 648th edition is held between June 29th - July 5th with the participation of 1578 wrestlers, and Mehmet Yesil from Antalya became the "bas pehlivan" beating Recep Kara, the winner of the last two years.
The wrestlers attend other wrestling championships before coming to Kirkpinar. The referees closely know the technique and mastery of each wrestler. The categories are divided into groups called "boy." In this arrangement, weight is not a deciding factor. A wrestler weighing 120kg might not be allowed to wrestle in the "bas" (head) category. To wrestle in the head category, one must have had a final in "bas alti", one step lover than the "bas" category. A successful wrestler in regional championships might be allowed to wrestle in the "bas" category if he is found to be superior to his competitors.
The final wrestling matches are held on the 3rd day of Kirkpinar, the President of Turkey arrives at Edirne on this day to watch the finals. The baspehlivan's prize is given by the President, the "aga" (sponsor), and the mayor. In 2007 and 2008, the winner of the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling was Recep Kara, so he became the "baspehlivan". But in 2009 Mehmet Yesil from Antalya beated Recep Kara becoming the new "bas pehlivan".