Kazakhstan Hosts International Hunting Tournament with Birds of Prey

The international Qansonar tournament dedicated to hunting with birds of prey has taken place in the Akmola Region, 24KZ reports. Falconers from Kazakhstan, Turkey, Russia, China and Mongolia competed for the title of best hunter. This year marked the 26th edition of the traditional regional competition.

Arailym Shytyrymbek, correspondent:

- This year, eagle hunters gathered in the Zerendi District for the first time. Previously, the tournament was held in Kokshetau and at the foot of the Burabay mountains. The competition lasts two days, with participants competing in three categories: hunting with golden eagles, falcons and hawks. On the first day, experienced eagle hunters demonstrated their skills, while young participants take to the arena today.

Seilbek Zhakashев, eagle hunter:

- Events like this truly help preserve the traditional art passed down to us by our ancestors. In this age of technology, it is important for young people to take a break from their gadgets and learn about our national traditions.

Over the past five years, the traditional tournament has grown into an international event. Alongside Kazakh eagle hunters, practitioners from other countries now take part in the competition.

Saigulik Nurgaiyp, eagle hunter from Mongolia:

- I come from a family of eagle hunters, and seven generations of my family have practised this art. I have been interested in falconry since I was 12. My father helps me train the birds, and the well-known eagle hunter Aisholpan is my older sister.

Mutlu Kyzylboga, eagle hunter from Turkey:

- I first discovered this art in Kazakhstan in 2022. I was inspired by the ancient Kazakh epics Korkyt Ata and Koblandy Batyr. This is my sixth visit to Kazakhstan, and I really enjoy the tournament.

The tournament continues to attract participants from an expanding range of countries and regions. This year, around 80 practitioners took part.

Ardak Tulendin, head of the Regional Department of Physical Culture and Sports:

- Last year, seven regions participated. This year, the number has risen to 10. It is particularly encouraging to see young athletes among the participants. The tournament’s reach continues to expand every year. Its main goal is to promote our national traditions and traditional sports.

The tournament also offered a substantial prize. The winner received a cash award of 500,000 tenge.

Authors: Arailym Shytyrymbek, Viktor Polyannyi