Since a young age, Sevilay Öztürk has found solace in swimming. Now 21, Sevilay spares no effort as she strives towards becoming a World Champion.
ADVERTISEMENTAt only 12 years old, Sevilay made history by being the youngest athlete at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games. At the Tokyo Games, she won second place and brought home Türkiye's first swimming medal. Fast-forward to 2024, and Sevilay's only aim is first prize at the Paris Paralympic Games.
Born without arms, Sevilay learned to do everything with her legs.
While she acknowledges her shortfalls, she doesn't see them as obstacles and is determined to overcome them through hard work.
While most people are asleep, Sevilay is working on her dreams. At the pool, Coach Mehmet Ali Albas helps to develop her swimming techniques, ensuring her form is flawless. At the gym, her trainer, Yusuf Şimşek, puts her muscles to work.
Coach Mehmet proudly states that Sevilay has yet to reach her peak and is destined for greatness. He considers her a role model and a source of pride for Türkiye.
Underwater, she likens herself to a little fish because they also do not have arms.
"Swimming has changed my life," Sevilay tells SCENES. The sport taught her that she has everything it takes to thrive and nothing is out of her reach.
With her goals in sight, Sevilay encourages everyone to believe in themselves, take the plunge and swim towards success.
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