Togyzkumalak club opened in Moscow

20 March 2024

In a heartwarming display of cultural exchange and intellectual challenge, the Moscow Toguzkumalak Club is capturing the hearts and minds of enthusiasts from not just across Russia, but globally, as per reports from '24KZ'. This ancient Kazakh game, known for its strategic depth, is attracting learners of every age, proving that the love for traditional games transcends borders and generations.

Originating from the quaint village of Kosh-Agach in the Altai Republic, Alima and her family have brought with them to Moscow a legacy steeped in the art of Toguzkumalak. Her mother, renowned for her efforts in popularizing this game, has found fertile ground in Moscow's vibrant diaspora. Their initiative has not just revived interest but has also turned into a bustling hub where up to 20 enthusiasts gather for lessons, eager to delve into the intricacies of this logic-based game.

Coach Alima Yerbolova sheds light on the demographic shift in their classes, noting an impressive uptake among schoolchildren due to their quick adaptability and the game's benefits on enhancing mental and mathematical skills. However, of late, it's the older generation that's showing a keen interest, demonstrating it's never too late to embrace new challenges.

 

Complementing her efforts are the stories of individuals like Coach Kozybek Zhalil, whose journey with Toguzkumalak began in the early years of his schooling, taught by his elder siblings. His achievements, alongside his peers from Bayan-Ulgii in Mongolia, on the international stage underscore the game's universal appeal and the competitive spirit it fosters.

This initiative, while modest, is sowing the seeds for what many hope will grow into a distinguished institution dedicated to nurturing this national sport. It's a testament to the unifying power of traditional games, bringing together 'kandas' – or ethnic kin – from various locales, fostering a community bound by shared heritage and intellectual pursuit.

Authors: Dana Nurzhan, Shakhzod Gamirov

Source: https://24.kz/kz/zha-aly-tar/sport/item/643563-m-skeude-to-yz-mala-jirmesi-ashyldy

Translated by the Otandastar Qory.

Togyzkumalak club opened in Moscow