Kazakh capital hosts kokpar tournament between teams from Astana and U.S.

A vibrant and exciting kokpar tournament took place in the Kazakh capital. A friendly match between the teams of Astana and the U.S. was held, surprising equestrian sport enthusiasts. For many years, the U.S. team has been honing their skills by participating in such competitions, including matches against domestic athletes.

“First of all, we want to say thank you. We were very pleased to be here in Kazakhstan, thank you for the hospitality, it’s been a great day so far. I know the Kazakhs are extremely great horsemen and we were excited to play kokpar and train with them,” said Ladd Howell, captain of the U.S. national kokpar team.

In addition to kokpar, equestrian performances such as audaryspak, tenge ilu, sadak atu, and kyz kuu took place at the capital’s hippodrome. Today, Kazakhstan celebrates  National Sports Day. Residents and visitors of Astana had the chance not only to witness traditional nomadic games but also to participate in free archery and togyzkumalak mastery workshops. Attendees were also acquainted with the ancient art of hunting with birds of prey and Tazy dogs.

“Today is March 20th, National Sports Day. It is a holiday for all of us, especially for the National Sports Association, athletes, and fans. We firmly believe that this occasion will give an impetus to the development and popularization of our national sports. Over recent years, national sports have experienced rapid development, thanks to the support of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. In September of this year, a major international event is scheduled to take place in Astana. Over 5,000 athletes from more than 100 countries are expected to participate in the fifth World Nomad Games, and our country will welcome more than 15,000 to 20,000 foreign tourists,” said Islambek Salzhanov, President of Kazakhstan’s National Sports Association.

Notably, Kazakhstan’s National Sports Association comprises 10 federations for the most popular games. Last year, domestic athletes took part in 12 international competitions, securing a total of 95 medals.