Equestrian prowess has always been fundamental to the nomadic lifestyle that defines Kazakh culture. Over the centuries, the Kazakh people developed a variety of horse games, both for recreation and to hone essential skills such as strength, agility, and riding dexterity. Some of these games are rooted in ancient survival techniques, while others serve purely as entertainment during festive occasions. Regardless of the origin, each game fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie among the Kazakh people. Despite adopting a more settled way of life, Kazakhs have worked to preserve these traditions, and no significant celebration is complete without them today.
Alaman Baiga is a long-distance race that tests the endurance of local horse breeds, a reflection of the nomadic need for horses capable of traveling vast distances. Traditionally, these races cover 30, 50, or even 100 kilometers over rough terrain, and horses were often adorned with braids or bird feathers for protection during the grueling event. However, not all horses survived these intense races. In modern times, Alaman Baiga remains popular, though the races are now typically held on racetracks, with distances reduced to around 30 kilometers.
Baiga, a shorter-distance race, involves sprints of two, five, or nine kilometers over flat terrain. The race divisions are based on the horse’s age: young horses under three years old race up to two kilometers, while older horses can race up to five or nine kilometers. Baiga is a prominent feature of many holidays and festivals, and the inclusive nature of the event allows anyone with a horse to participate.
Kokpar, and its team version Ulak, is an ancient game not only popular in Kazakhstan but also across Central Asia. In this competitive game, riders must lift a ram’s carcass and carry it to a designated point or toss it into a large cauldron. The game showcases the rider’s strength, grip, and balance as they maneuver to pick up the heavy carcass while staying on their horse. The term “Kokpar” translates to “Blue Wolf” in Kazakh, and the game is said to have originated from ancient hunts where nomads fought over a wolf’s carcass upon returning from the hunt. Over time, this tradition evolved into a game, with the wolf being replaced by a sheep. Today, Kokpar is the official equestrian sport in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and other Central Asian nations, with the largest competitions held during the World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan.
Audaryspack, or Kazakh wrestling on horseback, involves two riders attempting to unseat each other through grips and holds. This ancient game, essential for training warriors, enhances wrestling skills and strengthens the rider’s grip while seated in the saddle. A century ago, Audaryspack was a rite of passage for young boys, who would practice on foals, rams, and even bulls. There were also specialists who could identify the most agile and strongest horses, essential for success in the game.
Kyz Kuu, meaning «chase the girl,» is a popular game in both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, played during festivals and holidays. In this game, young men and women, dressed in vibrant traditional costumes, put on a show for the audience. At the signal, a girl races ahead on her horse, and a few seconds later, a boy pursues her, trying to catch her and earn a kiss. If he fails to catch her by the finish line, she has the right to chase him back, attempting to hit him with a whip. The distance for this playful chase is typically 400-500 meters in one direction.
In the game of Kume Alu, which translates to “pick up the coin,” riders must gather as many coins as possible, which are wrapped in small scarves and laid along the ground. This game tests the rider’s agility, balance, and grip, as they lean from their horse to scoop up the coins. The rider who collects the most coins is declared the winner.
Tymak Uryp Zhygu is a lively and humorous game open to anyone with a horse. In this game, a pole just over two meters high is set up, with a traditional Kazakh headdress, the tymak, placed on top. After being blindfolded, spun around several times, and handed a whip, the participant must try to knock the tymak off the pole. If they fail after three attempts, they can earn another chance by singing a song or performing a dance. Tymak Uryp Zhygu is a popular addition to major holidays and celebrations.