A long jump from South Africa to Turkey

Karin Mey (25) is a long jump athlete. Born in South Africa, she is part of the Turkish Olympic team that will compete in Beijing. She left her birth country after being told she would never represent South Africa in the Olympics. Having recently obtained Turkish citizenship, Karin also received offers of residency from Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. She chose Turkey because they offered her a 4-year contract. Karin is the South African record holder (6.93) and number 4 in the world. She lives in Istanbul, and changed her name to Melis Mey, given to her by her team mates at Fenerbahce Club. Karin left South Africa earlier this year, with her South African coach Charley Strohmenger. Her father is a NGK minister in Bronkhorstspruit, Ds. Kobus Mey.