Two days are left
before the start of the fifth World Nomad Games. These days, the ethno-village
near Astana has become not only a venue where everyone can get acquainted with
the unique culture of nomads but also a training ground for athletes of the
national teams. Even weather conditions are no obstacle. The hunting birds, eagles,
hawks, and falcons, are also ready for the Games.
«The art of our
ancestors has been passed down to us since birth. We train our hunting birds
intensively. This one gained significant weight over the summer, but we reduce
it gradually through systematic exercises. We hope to win the main prize,» said
Serikbek Kuntuganuly, a participant of the fifth World Nomad Games.
Nomadic peoples have
learnt to tame birds of prey for hunting since ancient times. To preserve and
develop this tradition, this sport has been included in the program of the
World Nomad Games. Although Kazakhstan’s national team is among the favorites,
the competition is also strong.
«I can say that neighbouring countries like
the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia are also well prepared. Like Kazakhs, they have
been involved in training hunting birds for centuries,» said Armanbek
Kuntugan, senior coach of Kazakhstan’s national kusbegilik team.
The history of the
Kazakh people includes the names of batyrs who had courageous spirits and
extraordinary strength. And nowadays, modern wrestlers demonstrate their power
and skills at competitions and various festivals. They also plan to take part at
the upcoming fifth World Nomad Games.
«We expect athletes
from over 17 countries to join our sports competitions. For us, that is a great
advantage, as there will be many guests. It is time to showcase the beauty of
the Kazakh capital as well as present this sport and our strong athletes to the
world,» said Timur Spatayev, Tolagai strongman competition organizer.
Notably, the Tolagai strongman competition includes
five disciplines: squatting with a 100-kilogram bag on the shoulders, carrying a
100-kilogram stone over a distance, lifting a 130-kilogram log, towing a
200-kilogram trolley, and throwing a 10-kilogram javelin.
Editor: Гайни Жумабек
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