The World Nomad Games held in Astana, Kazakhstan, showcased the rich culture and traditional sports of nomadic peoples from Central Asia. The event, which started in Kyrgyzstan a decade ago, brought together over 2,000 athletes from 89 countries to compete in 21 traditional games that have historical roots in the nomadic empires of the Great Steppe.
One of the most thrilling games was kokpar, a horseback sport where riders compete to carry a headless goat carcass to a goal while being chased by opposing teams. The event symbolizes the athleticism and bravery of the nomadic peoples who once roamed the steppes of inner Asia. Other fascinating games included audaryspak, a horseback wrestling competition, and kusbegilik, a hunting game involving majestic birds of prey.
Kazakhstan emerged as the overall winner of the games, securing a total of 112 medals, including 43 golds. The success of Kazakhstan, along with surprising victories from nations like Italy, Hungary, and Romania, highlights the growing global appeal of traditional Central Asian sports and martial arts.
In addition to the sporting events, the World Nomad Games also featured cultural activities such as Togyzkumalak, a traditional board game, and live performances of aitys, folk music and poetry duels. These cultural showcases not only entertain the audience but also preserve and promote the intangible heritage of the nomadic peoples.
While the next edition of the games is set to return to Kyrgyzstan in 2026, there are discussions about hosting future events in other parts of the world, including North America. The goal is to expand the reach of the World Nomad Games and raise awareness about the unique traditions and sports of nomadic cultures.
Overall, the Fifth World Nomad Games offered a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the nomadic peoples of Central Asia. Through a combination of sports, cultural performances, and friendly competition, the event celebrated the spirit of unity and athleticism that has defined nomadic life for centuries.