The World Nomad Games, an event celebrating traditional nomadic sports, is currently underway in Kyrgyzstan. Athletes from 104 countries are participating in the games, highlighting sports from the Turkic peoples of Central Asia. The competitions are set to conclude this Sunday.
The 6th Games are taking place in Kyrchyn Gorge, located around 314 kilometers east of the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek. Participants and spectators have gathered at the venue, where various events are being held throughout the week.
During the competition, participants can be seen marching with golden eagles, engaging in hunting bird activities, and showcasing their skills in traditional equestrian disciplines like “tyiyn enmei” (pick up the coin). This particular competition involves riders galloping at high speeds while picking up coins or pouches from the ground while mounted on their horses.
Other events at the games include horse riding competitions like “kok-boru” (gray wolf) or “buzkashi” (goat grabbing), where mounted players compete by throwing a headless goat carcass into a well to earn points. Spectators not only witness the thrilling competitions but also indulge in food and appreciate craftsmanship skills on display, such as wool spooling and pottery-making demonstrations by Kyrgyz women.
