Kokpar Kok Boru Ancient Battle Of Nomads On Horses

Kokpar or Kok-Boru (Kyrgyz version) is an ancient horse game of nomads. Registered as an international heritage of UNESCO. The origin of this game is prehistoric. Kokpar or Kok Boru from the ancient Turkic language means Heavenly Wolf, a prehistoric animal totem indicating belonging to a certain nomadic clan. Among the ancient Turks, this totem signified the high spirit and courage of a nomad who overcame all the hardships and adversities of life, demonstrating all his high spiritual and physical qualities. In ancient times, participation in this serious and dangerous game was a kind of initiation act for nomadic boys during their growing up period. This game develops the spiritual and physical qualities of a young man and trains in him the team spirit inherent in the wolf family.

According to some studies, this game was the ancestor of polo and modern football.

This tour includes a visit to a Kazakh village, close acquaintance and observation as a spectator of a horse game. The goal of an exciting battle between team players is to score a goal using a real goat carcass (30 kg) and hitting the opposing team's goal with it.

There are two versions of this ancient game: a folk version used in villages with a large number of players, where there is practically a fight between players in an open field without rules. Another easier version of the game is a sports version, where two teams compete with certain rules and judges.

Acquaintance and communication with team players, judges, coaches, horse owners. Possible observation of training, preparation of players and horses before the game. Plus an exclusive acquaintance with the team's stars and their famous horses.

We cheer for the players and horses together with numerous local fans.

The game is visited in Almaty and the Almaty region, as well as in Shymkent.