Kazakhstan Launches Inaugural Military Kazakh Wrestling Challenge in Astana

The first-ever Military Kazakh Wrestling (Qazaq Kuresi) Challenge, organized under the International Military Sports Council (CISM) at the Qazaqstan Field and Track Complex in Astana, has kicked off in Kazakhstan.

The competition gathers athletes from 25 countries to compete in 16 men’s and women’s weight categories, with Kazakh Armed Forces and State Guard Service wrestlers representing the host nation, The Caspian Post informs via Kazakh media.

The event, marking the 100th anniversary of Hero of the Soviet Union Aliya Moldagulova, features an exhibition of archival materials, national artifacts, and Kazakh art, celebrating both athletic and cultural heritage. Kazakhstan won the right to host the challenge at the 79th CISM General Assembly in Tanzania in 2024 and is also preparing to bid for the 2027 World Taekwondo Championships, showcasing its growing role in international sports.