Zeki Öztürk

Turkish all-time distance great. He had a long and successful career (1984-2001). He participated in two Olympics Games (1988, 1992). In 1989, Öztürk won Turkey's first Universiade medal.

Emerged as a versatile talent in early 80s in his hometown Sivas. Became the first athlete in Turkish athletics to break all seniors national records from 1500 metres to half marathon. Established 12 national records (including U20 & U23) in his career, some of them were remained unbroken more than twenty years. Won seven golds in Balkan Championships which proved he was the best distance runner in Balkans at the 90s.

Retired in 2003.

PERSONAL BESTS

800m: 1:49.0 (Ankara 1987)

1500m: 3:35.68 (Bologna 1990)

3000m: 7:47.52 (Udine 1990)

5000m: 13:26.77 (Zurich 1990)

10,000m: 28:19.77 (Rome 1995)

Half Marathon: 1:03:02 (Istanbul 1987)

Marathon: 2:18:34 (Istanbul 1995)

TRIVIA

- Married to another distance runner, Lale Daşgın (Öztürk). Have two daughters.

- Clubs: Fenerbahçe, Şişecam, İstanbul BBSK.

- Graduated from Gazi University, Ankara.

- Contested for Turkish Athletics Federation presidency twice (2016, 2021) but did not elected.