Astana, 6 September 2024 (TDI): As the Paralympics conclude in Paris, a different kind of global sporting event is set to begin in Astana, Kazakhstan: the World Nomad Games.
This bi-annual event celebrates the ancient warfare skills of historically nomadic peoples through 21 disciplines, including horse wrestling, horseback archery, martial arts, and falconry, as well as cultural and scientific competitions.
Listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage, the World Nomad Games aim to promote and preserve ethno-sports and the ethno-cultural movement.
“The World Nomad Games are a unique opportunity to showcase our country’s rich historical and cultural heritage,” said Kazakhstan’s Culture and Information Minister Aida Balayeva.
She added that the games also allow the country “to show the spirit of our nation, to show the soul of Kazakhstan’s people.”
Over 2000 Athletes
The current edition of the games, running from September 8 to 13, will see over 2,000 athletes from around 89 countries compete. Organisers note that the event has drawn participants from far beyond those with a nomadic heritage.
“What’s interesting is the geography of participating countries,” noted Kairat Sadvakassov, Chairman of Kazakh Tourism.
“From Australia to Canada, from South Africa to Great Britain — countries with little or no nomadic tradition. These games are clearly gaining global traction.”
The first three editions of the World Nomad Games were held in Kyrgyzstan, while the previous event took place in Turkey.
