Togyzkumalak (nine pellets) continues to gain popularity worldwide. The intellectual game, which knows no boundaries, is captivating men and women, young and old, across countries and continents. In Latin America, it was decided to establish a Federation of the Kazakh national game. This decision was made during the founding meeting in the Colombian city of Cali, where the second international Togyzkumalak competition took place. About 50 athletes from 10 countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Ecuador, Argentina, Chile, Guatemala, Panama, Venezuela, Germany and Kazakhstan, gathered to test their logic and wit. The competitions were held in two types - classic and rapid. According to the organizers, such events help promote national heritage not only within the country but also abroad.
«We are delighted that a Togyzkumalak Federation has been established in Latin America. People here have grown very fond of this Kazakh game. We are happy that the number of people interested in togyzkumalak and joining us is increasing. In the future, we hope to learn and master other traditional nomadic games as well,» noted Oscar Fajardo, President of the Latin American Togyzkumalak Federation.
«The leadership of the Federation established in Latin America intends to make every effort to develop togyzkumalak. Each year, intellectual games will be held in different cities across the region. For example, in 2025, competitions will take place in Cali. For our part, we are doing everything we can and providing comprehensive support to promote togyzkumalak,» noted Akim Tursun, Vice President of Kazakhstan’s Togyzkumalak Federation.
Togyzkumalak, also known as steppe chess, has gained recognition in Europe. Among the countries where the intellectual game has become most widespread are the Czech Republic, France, Switzerland, and Latvia. In Kazakhstan, togyzkumalak has already become a national pride, with more than 200,000 enthusiasts. In 2020, by UNESCO’s decision, the game was included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
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