World Nomad Games to gather 3,000 athletes from 113 countries

Kyrgyzstan is set to host the 6th World Nomad Games, expecting a record participation of 3,000 athletes from 113 countries. The athletes will compete across 42 sports disciplines and engage in various cultural and scientific events.

This year's games will see the debut of several nations, including Australia, New Zealand, Algeria, Burundi, Gambia, Jordan, Egypt, Cabo Verde, Ivory Coast, Oman, Uganda, Ethiopia, and North Macedonia. This expansion highlights the growing global interest in the traditional sports and culture represented at the event.

Among the 42 sports featured are traditional competitions like "tyiyn enmei" (horseback archery), kokpar (a team sport played on horseback), strongman contests, and the Buryat national game of breaking the spinal bone. These events showcase the rich heritage of nomadic peoples.

Belek Usenbekov, deputy head of the WNG International Secretariat, noted that the 3rd World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan in 2018 had participants from 84 countries and attracted over 50,000 spectators. This year, organizers anticipate approximately 100,000 guests, doubling the previous attendance.

The World Nomad Games are held biennially, with the first event taking place in Kyrgyzstan in 2014. The 6th edition will run from August 31 to September 6 in Kyrgyzstan.

“

in this year's Games, Australia, New Zealand, Algeria, Burundi, Gambia, Jordan, Egypt, Cabo Verde, Ivory Coast, Oman, Uganda, Ethiopia and North Macedonia will join for the first time.