TurkeyBiography
One of three Olympics medallists in Turkish athletics history. Born in small town Kalecik near Ankara. Started in athletics at school. Broke his first senior hammer throw record in 2000. Same year ended with high note such as World Junior Championships gold medal in Santiago.
He finished fourth hammer throw final in Athens 2004. But three days later he upgraded bronze as first-placed athlete Adrian Annus was disqualified for doping violation. In 2012, another athlete who standing above him, silver medallist Ivan Tikhon also disqualified for doping by re-testing. Apak was still not "officially" upgraded to silver. Process is ongoging.
He threw personal best every season until 2005, the year he recorded 81.45m NR in Istanbul. After his doping ban (2013-14), back to the business and qualified his fourth Olympics in Rio, but not good there to make final.
He managed to get a ticket for the fifth Olympics in Tokyo and became first Turkish athlete who competed five Olympics. Apak finished ninth in Tokyo 2020 final.
TRIVIA
♦ Coached by former national champion Artun Talay until 2005, then worked with former World champion Igor Astapkovich.
♦ Clubs: Çimentaş, Galatasaray, ENKA
♦ Married to former national team sprinter Sema Aydemir, divorced in 2016. The couple have a son, named Ali (born 2008).
♦ Graduated from Gazi University.
♦ Lives in Ankara.