Bishkek, May 18, 2026 /Kabar/. For the first time, a sailing championship is being held in Central Asia, opening a new chapter in the development of sports, tourism, and international cooperation.
On May 16, the Cruise Yacht Club in Cholpon-Ata raised its white sails and became the center of international sporting event. Snow-white yachts, gliding through the waves of Issyk-Kul Lake against the wind, became a symbol of new opportunities, aspirations, and the spirit of Central Asia.
More than 100 athletes from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are participating in the first Central Asian Championship. They are demonstrating their skills on the water and competing for awards. The international panel of judges includes specialists from Turkey, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan, confirming the high level of organization of the tournament.
The heads of the sailing federations of Turkmenistan and Tajikistan have already announced their intention to bring their teams next year. Urmat Asanbaev, Director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports under the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, held the opening ceremony, wishing the athletes success.
The international tournament in Issyk-Kul is being held in the Optimist, ILCA-4, ILCA-6, ILCA-7, and Fareast-23 classes. The winners will be announced on May 21st and will receive medals, diplomas, and valuable prizes.