On March 20th, the Minister of Tourism and Sports, Ermek Marzhikpaev, met with a delegation from the United States, including renowned American rodeo cowboy Casey Field and the captain of the US kokpar team, Ladd Howell. The meeting aimed to discuss the development of equestrian sports, the promotion of kokpar and American rodeo in both countries, as well as the upcoming 5th World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan.
The American delegation expressed readiness to participate in kokpar competitions. The US kokpar team, led by captain Ladd Howell, has previously participated in the World Nomad Games in 2018 and 2022. Minister Marzhikpaev praised kokpar as one of the oldest nomadic games with a history spanning hundreds of years, highlighting its spectacular nature. He expressed high hopes for Kazakh athletes based on their past success and commended the US team for their active involvement in equestrian sports of Central Asian nomadic peoples.
Minister Marzhikpaev extended an invitation to the US guests to take part in the countdown clock unveiling ceremony for the upcoming 5th World Nomad Games Astana-2024. In return, the US delegation proposed including American rodeo performances in the program of the Astana Nomad Games.
Rodeo, a traditional sport in North America, historically popular among Mexican and American cowboys, would bring a new and exciting element to the Nomad Games. The visit of the American cowboys coincided with Kazakhstan's first-ever National Sports Day celebration this year.
The 5th World Nomad Games are scheduled to take place in Astana in September 2024, promising a vibrant celebration of nomadic culture and sportsmanship on a global stage.
