Kyrgyzstan: Traditional Kok Boru draws crowds at 6th World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan.

SHOTLIST: CHOLPON-ATA, KYRGYZSTAN (SEPT. 4, 2026) 1. ROAD DECORATED WITH HORSE STATUES IN CHOLPON-ATA 2. GENERAL VIEW OF ISSYK-KUL COASTLINE 3. VARIOUS OF CITY VIEWS OF CHOLPON-ATA 4. VARIOUS OF PEOPLE GATHERING AROUND KOK BORU ARENA BEFORE COMPETITIONS 5. VARIOUS OF KOK BORU COMPETITION / SPECTATORS WATCHING KOK BORU COMPETITION FROM STANDS / ONE OF KYRGYZ OFFICIALS SPEAKING (Kyrgyz) 6. ONE OF KYRGYZ OFFICIALS SPEAKING (Kyrgyz) 7. ONE OF BRAZILIAN VISITORS, SOFIA ODASSO SPEAKING TO REPORTER (English) 8. ONE OF BRAZILIAN VISITORS, LETICIA PAVIM SPEAKING TO REPORTER (English) 9. ONE OF BRAZILIAN VISITORS, EDUARDO MARTINS SPEAKING TO REPORTER (English) CHOLPON-ATA, KYRGYZSTAN - SEPT. 4: Traditional Kok Boru competitions drew large crowds to the Kok Boru Arena near Lake Issyk-Kul on Friday, Sept. 4, as riders showcased high-speed horseback skills at the 6th World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan. The traditional equestrian sport—known as oglak kapmaca in Türkiye, Kok Boru in Kyrgyzstan, and kokpar in Kazakhstan—ranks among the oldest athletic traditions in the Turkic world. Seven national teams are competing in this year's tournament, according to Kyrgyz officials. Kyrgyz sports officials emphasized the cultural weight of the sport, noting that horses remain central symbols of independence and courage for nomadic heritage. International visitors praised the atmospheric opening ceremonies and traditional matches, which showcase team tactics and horseback maneuverability unique to Central Asian culture. The sixth World Nomad Games officially opened Monday at Bishkek Arena, bringing together 2,355 athletes, coaches, and delegation members from 106 countries, according to the Kyrgyz presidency. The opening ceremony featured a parade of participating countries, a theatrical performance showcasing Kyrgyz history and culture, traditional equestrian displays, laser and fire shows, a fireworks display, and a performance by an international music star. The event was attended by leaders from various countries, including the presidents of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Iran, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Türkiye, and Russia, The 6th World Nomad Games will run through Sept. 6.