29.06.2026 19:40
The 100th Gazi Race, held since 1927 in the name of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was won by the thoroughbred "Bay Nalçakan," owned by Emrah Nalçakan and ridden by jockey Halis Karataş. In the 100th Gazi Race, which was a scene of great excitement, the menu sold for 20,000 liras became a topic of debate.
The historic Gazi Race, considered the derby of Turkish racing and held uninterruptedly since 1927 in the name of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, opened its doors for the 100th time this year.
THE GREAT RACE WAS WON BY 'BAY NALÇAKAN'
In the thrilling race that took place at the Veliefendi Hippodrome, victory went to the thoroughbred named "Bay Nalçakan", owned by Emrah Nalçakan and ridden by legendary jockey Halis Karataş.
THE PRICE OF THE MENU SERVED SPARKED DEBATE
However, as much as the great excitement in the stands and the historic victory on the track, a menu served in the hippodrome's special invitation/VIP area became the number one topic on social media and among race fans. The price of the special menu offered to guests at the organization celebrating the pride of the 100th anniversary quickly became the focus of criticism. The per-person charge for the menu, which excluded alcoholic beverages and was mandatory for all guests over the age of 7, was set at a full 20,000 TL.
FOODS IN THE MENU
The contents of that controversial menu, which spread rapidly on social media and faced intense criticism in terms of price-performance, are as follows:
- Appetizer Platter: Roast Beef, Stuffed Peppers, Cretan Spread with Eggplant Sauce, Pink Sultan, Carrot Tarator, Love's Bite
- Spread on Tables: Bombay Beans, Pilaki, Carrot Cucumber Cocktail, Mixed Nuts, Cheese Platter
- Salad
- Intermediate Hot Dish: Cheese Pastry, Stuffed Meatballs
- Main Course: Sultan's Delight with Milk-Fed Lamb Shank (with Saffron Rice) or Oven-Baked Chicken Leg with Vegetables
- Fruit: Seasonal Fruits (Melon, Watermelon, Cherry)
- Dessert: Semolina Halva with Fruit
SOCIAL MEDIA WAS DIVIDED
While some race fans argued that this price was normal due to it being a VIP reception for the 100th anniversary of the organization, a large majority reacted by stating that the traditional menu offered, despite being non-alcoholic, was not worth 20,000 TL.