5th World Nomad Games Begin in Astana, Kazakhstan
The 5th World Nomad Games officially started in Astana, Kazakhstan, with a grand opening ceremony at the Astana Arena. The event, attended by over 2,500 athletes and thousands of guests from 89 countries, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of nomadic civilizations.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the ceremony, where children representing various ethnic groups in Kazakhstan presented the national flag, followed by the national anthem and a parade of delegations. In his speech, President Tokayev emphasized the historical significance of nomadic cultures and their contributions to world history.
President Tokayev’s Speech
President Tokayev highlighted the achievements of historical figures from Kazakhstan, such as Al-Farabi and Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, and the powerful states and beautiful medieval cities established by their ancestors. He stressed the unifying power of the Nomad Games in promoting global unity and mutual respect.
International Participation
The event saw participation from athletes across Asia, Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Australia. Distinguished international leaders and officials, including President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan and President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyzstan, attended the ceremony. Representatives from international organizations like UNESCO and the European Union were also present.
Competitions and Cultural Performances
The Games, running from September 9th to September 13th, feature competitions in 21 sports, including horseback archery, martial arts, falconry, and traditional wrestling. The opening ceremony concluded with a cultural performance showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich history and values of harmony with nature and respect for the land.
Significance of the World Nomad Games
The World Nomad Games, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, have become the largest event dedicated to traditional sports. They offer a platform for nations with shared nomadic roots to celebrate cultural diversity and strengthen bonds of friendship and peace through sport.
Doubts Revealed
Kazakhstan -: Kazakhstan is a country in Central Asia. It is the world’s largest landlocked country, meaning it doesn’t have any coastline.
World Nomad Games -: The World Nomad Games are a multi-sport event that celebrates traditional nomadic sports and culture. Nomads are people who move from place to place instead of living in one location.
Astana -: Astana is the capital city of Kazakhstan. It was renamed Nur-Sultan for a few years but is now called Astana again.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev -: Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is the President of Kazakhstan. He is the leader of the country and represents it in international matters.
horseback archery -: Horseback archery is a sport where people shoot arrows at targets while riding a horse. It requires a lot of skill and practice.
falconry -: Falconry is a traditional sport where people train birds of prey, like falcons, to hunt other animals. It has been practiced for thousands of years.
nomadic cultures -: Nomadic cultures are ways of life where people move from place to place to find food and resources. They don’t settle in one place permanently.
cultural performances -: Cultural performances are shows that display traditional music, dance, and other arts. They help people learn about and appreciate different cultures.