Typical Turkish bad luck, the way it used to be at Eurovision. Turkey had been drawn early on in the running order most of the years, usually going back home with dismal placings and a few complimentary points in their suitcase.
Most people agreed that the Turkish entry was the most user-friendly one for years, but then again being drawn in the dreaded #2 slot would do it no favours.
What did we know? The biggest underdog there ever was in the contest (since Norway shaped up in the mid-80's) surprised everyone and scored their by far best placing until then. Şebnem Paker recieved three top marks and came in third.
This proves beyond the shadow of a doubt, that a bad draw can make things a bit harder for you. But a good song is still a good song, a convincing performance is still a convincing performance, and when it is time to vote nobody cares what starting position you had.
Once you break through to people, you will score. A good starting position just makes everything a little easier.
Şebnem Paker & Grup Ethnic - Dinle (Turkey 1997)
