The World Nomad Games
have become the largest international ethno-sports competition globally, with
the participant geography steadily expanding. Over 2,000 athletes from 90 countries
have come to Astana to take part in the event. Many participants including not
only from Turkic states but also from those historically unrelated to the
nomadic world are coming, which clearly demonstrates the growing interest in
the Games. Despite this, they are competing in events such as arkan tartys,
audaryspak, kokpar, and hunting with birds of prey.
«Kokpar teams from
nine countries came to participate in the fifth World Nomad Games. A total of 104 athletes were registered and certified,» noted Gani
Akhmetbayev, chief kokpar referee.
A total of 180
athletes from 33 countries have arrived in the Kazakh capital for the fifth
World Nomad Games, aiming to win medals in traditional archery. Among them are
many experienced archers from European countries.
«We came from Spain to
participate in the traditional archery competition. My
wife Soledat and I have been passionate about this sport for almost 12 years.
We are both nearly 80 years old. However, if the opportunity arises, we will
try to continue participating in all such competitions that take place in
Kazakhstan,» said Guerrero Gallego, a participant of the fifth World Nomad
Games, Spain.
Arai Kakimzhanova is
from Kazakhstan, but she represents Italy in the competitions. She got married,
started a family and has been living there for four years now. Kakimzhanova is a professional archer.
«When we heard that
the World Nomad Games would be held in Astana, we thought, why not invite the
Italian team to participate. Seven athletes supported
my proposal, including two women and five men. The Turkish disciplines include
Puta, Kalkan, and zhamby atu. The rules for these sports are different in
Italy. We hope to gain experience here,» shared Arai Kakimzhanova, a participant
of the fifth World Nomad Games, Italy.
It is no secret that the Great Steppe gave the
world horse breeding and equestrian culture. Therefore, modern Kazakhstan,
where nomadic civilization has flourished since ancient times, confidently
promotes this heritage by holding such a vibrant and spectacular ethno-sports
event as the World Nomad Games.
Editor: Гайни Жумабек
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