“Free Solo meets Minding the Gap...
also dead goats.”
-Lucy Whitman Sandmeyer
(Film Donor)
What is Kok Boru?
Kok Boru is a centuries-old horseback game rooted in the nomadic traditions of Central Asia. Often described as rugby on horseback, it features two teams of riders competing to carry and score a goat carcass (or replica) into the opponent’s goal.
For thousands of years, Kok Boru has been more than a sport, it's a living tradition that reflects the strength, horsemanship, and community of Central Asian cultures. Once practiced on the open steppes, it has evolved into a celebrated international sport of the region, with professional leagues, large prize pools, and international tournaments watched by millions.
World Nomad Games?
The World Nomad Games are a global celebration of traditional sports and nomadic culture, often described as the “Central Asian Olympics.” Held every two years, the Games bring together athletes from around the world to compete in ancient events like horseback wrestling, archery, eagle hunting, and Kok Boru. These are not ceremonial displays but intense competitions.
Beyond the sports, the Games are a cultural showcase. They offer a window into the traditions of nomadic life that have shaped Central Asia for centuries, featuring displays of art, food, music, and science. The World Nomad Games create a space where the past and present meet, inviting people from around the globe to honor and engage with nomadic heritage.
Nomad Cowboys?
The "Nomad Cowboys" are members of the USA Nomadic Sports Federation. The Federation has partnered with US and foreign embassies to enable its athletes to compete across Central Asia in sports such as Kok Boru and horseback wrestling.
The USA Nomadic Sports Federation aims to promote the growth of nomadic sports domestically, educate Americans about the cultural and historical origins of nomadic sports, and engage in cultural exchanges with other athletes from around the world. The Federation serves as global ambassador for the values of the American West, commonly known as "Cowboy Ethic".
