Rakib Fedha Abdul wins Uganda’s first gold at Bosphorus Parkour tournament

Ugandan gymnast Rakib Fedha Abdul made history in Istanbul, Turkey, by clinching gold at the inaugural Bosphorus Parkour Gymnastics International Tournament, Uganda’s first-ever top podium finish at the event.

The 21-year-old national champion stunned the home crowd by defeating Turkish favorite Baris Karaduman in the finals.

Despite Karaduman posting a score of 27.41 points, Rakib’s flawless execution and control earned him 24.21 points in the speed category, securing the coveted title.

Earlier in the qualifiers, Rakib overcame Syria’s Al Hussein Muhammad, while fellow Ugandan Zubeda Talikaza was eliminated by Madagascar’s bronze medalist, Ravoavonjiarison Feno Fitsikiana.

This victory marks Rakib’s second appearance on the global stage, following his standout performance at last year’s Parkour World Championship in Japan, where he was honoured as the best African athlete.

Tournament favorites Toprak Topuz and Karaduman, both from Turkey, settled for silver and bronze respectively, underscoring the magnitude of Rakib’s achievement. In the women’s division, Turkey dominated with Acimis İrem and Domnez Ela taking gold and silver, while Madagascar’s Fitsikiana earned bronze. Uganda’s Talikaza finished a commendable fifth.

Uganda Gymnastics Federation President Harriet Ayaa, who led the delegation, hailed Rakib’s triumph as a breakthrough moment.

“I am extremely proud of him. Winning gold at such a high level reflects his dedication and hard work. He has trained tirelessly, and this victory is well deserved,” she said.

Beyond the competition, Uganda’s presence in Istanbul yielded long-term benefits. Ayaa signed a landmark memorandum of understanding with the Turkish Gymnastics Federation aimed at accelerating the sport’s development back home. The agreement will provide Ugandan athletes, coaches, and judges access to elite training camps in Turkey, along with support in acquiring modern equipment.

“This partnership gives our gymnasts the chance to learn from some of the world’s best. It’s a huge step forward for Uganda,” Ayaa emphasized.

Rakib’s golden moment in Istanbul not only celebrates his personal rise but also signals a promising new chapter for Ugandan gymnastics—one built on talent, international collaboration, and a growing belief in the country’s potential on the world stage.