Military personnel convene in Astana for the inaugural World Qazaq Kuresi Championship
World Qazaq Kuresi Championship Kicks Off in Astana
The World Qazaq Kuresi Championship among military personnel commenced on August 14, 2022, at the Qazaqstan athletics complex in Astana, Kazakhstan. This international wrestling competition, first held in August 2025, brings together military wrestlers from 25 countries under the auspices of the International Military Sports Council (CISM). The event features 16 weight categories for both men and women.
Aside from the competition, a thematic exhibition is being held, showcasing archival documents, photographs, artifacts, traditional yurts, and national art. This cultural display enhances the event's significance, offering a glimpse into Kazakh heritage and traditions.
The championship is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Hero of the Soviet Union Aliya Moldagulova, a celebrated Kazakh sniper and military figure from World War II. The dedication honours her legacy, linking the event to Kazakhstan's military history and national pride.
The successful staging of the championship in Astana could potentially lead to Qazaq Kuresi being included in the program of the 2027 World Military Games in the U.S., further integrating the sport into global military sports competitions.
The information about the championship was reported by the Kazakh Ministry of Defense press service on August 12, 2022. Kazakhstan participates in the championship with top wrestlers from the Armed Forces and the State Security Service.
This event symbolizes Kazakhstan’s effort to promote national identity and military heritage through sport, while commemorating a historic national heroine, Aliya Moldagulova. The championship is a testament to Kazakhstan's commitment to sharing its rich cultural heritage with the world.
| Aspect | Details | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Event | World Qazaq Kuresi Championship among military personnel | | Location | Qazaqstan athletics complex, Astana, Kazakhstan | | Participants | Military wrestlers from 25 countries, under CISM | | Sport | Qazaq Kuresi – traditional Kazakh wrestling | | Historical Significance| Dedicated to Aliya Moldagulova, 100th birth anniversary, symbolizing Kazakh military heroism | | Future Goals | Inclusion in 2027 World Military Games | | Exhibition | Archival documents, photographs, artifacts, traditional yurts, and national art | | Host | Qazaqstan athletics complex | | Organizer | International Military Sports Council (CISM) | | Participation | Kazakhstan participates with top wrestlers from the Armed Forces and the State Security Service | | Announcement | Reported by the Kazakh Ministry of Defense press service on August 12, 2022 |
In light of the ongoing World Qazaq Kuresi Championship, it would be intriguing to see military personnel engage in a different sport, such as hockey, in future editions of this event. This could serve as an opportunity to foster camaraderie and strengthen international relations among participating countries.
Furthermore, organizing exhibition matches of hockey alongside Qazaq Kuresi competition could add an exciting twist, further enriching the cultural display and providing a broader perspective on Kazakh sports heritage.
