Kazakh traditional sports

Kazakh traditional sports are still practiced in Kazakhstan during national celebrations. ISKER Group provides sponsorship and takes an active part in such events because Kazakh sports are integral parts of national culture. Endless Eurasian steppes and challenging local climate had a tremendous influence on the building of Kazakh national culture. The nomadic lifestyle required Kazakh men and women to be physically tough horse riders and skillful hunters. This fact is reflected in the nature of Kazakh national sports and games the majority of which are equestrian competitions.

Kokpar

The name of the sport comes from Kazakh words and means “a grey wolf.” Kokpar is considered to be a kind of polo. This is a very popular masculine sport where two teams (from five to ten persons in each) of horse riders grapple over a decapitated goat, which they try to deposit in the opponent’s goal. The distance between two goalposts is 300-400 meters. It lasts 15 minutes. In case of a draw, horsemen have the second round. If there is no result again, a competition between two players is organized.

Baiga

This is one of the most popular and widespread Kazakh equestrian sport. Baiga is a horse racing over short and long distances (up to 100 kilometres). It is believed that the national sport originated with the need of Kazakh nomads to promote endurance in horses. Traditionally, the participants are Kazakh boys between 7 and 14 years of age. However, sometimes professional jockeys can compete with each other as well.

Kazaksha kures

Kazaksha kures was the most popular fighting among people. The variety of this game has other nationalities of Central Asia. Originally, all kinds of fighting were generated by the necessity of hand-to-hand fighting. “Kazaksha kures” was carried out during all holidays between well-known strong men. The fighters knew various fighting technique, including back heels and undercuts, throws with falling, turnings with spurt. Distinguishing feature of “Kazaksha kures” is lack of fighting in parterre. The fighting is carried out only uprightly.