Issyk-Kul, Sept. 4, 2026 /Kabar/. The 6,000-meter byshty zhorgo races have begun at the Cholpon-Ata hippodrome as part of the VI World Nomad Games.
Fans are actively supporting the participants, watching the races, and loudly expressing their emotions. Spectators eagerly await the finish line and hope to see their favorite win.
Traditional horse racing is one of the most thrilling and ancient sports of the Kyrgyz people. Races were held during various folk celebrations, and swift, enduring horses capable of covering long distances were specially selected for these events. Winners were traditionally awarded valuables or livestock.
Byshty jorgo is a pacing race covering 6,000 meters. Riders must be 10 years of age or older. Horses of all breeds born in 2023 are eligible to participate.
In addition to standard horse races, competitions among pacing horses were also held. Pacing (jorgo) is a two-beat gait in which the horse moves its legs in lateral pairs.
During this gait, the horse sways slightly from side to side, and only two hoofbeats are heard. The ability to maintain a pacing gait is highly valued, as not every horse is capable of it.
