5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games 2017 in Ashgabat: The backstory
In 2010, the Olympic Council of Asia, the National Olympic Committee of Turkmenistan and the administration of Ashgabat city signed an agreement to stage the 5th Asian Indoor & Martial Arts Games in September 2017.
In November, the construction of the largest sporting complex in the Central Asian region started in the Turkmen capital. This complex consists of over 30 different facilities, including competition venues, accommodation, transportation and other infrastructures.
In January 2013 President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov established the Organising Committee for the preparation of the Games.
In addition to Asian countries, for the first time in the history of the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, Oceania was included in the Games, bringing the participating countries to 62.
There will be 21 sports included in the Games. In addition to the 19 sports originally involved in the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, Turkmen traditional wrestling Goresh, and Equestrian Jumping were added to the competition schedule. The proposal was accepted by the Olympic Council of Asia and jointly approved.
Health. Inspiration. Friendship.
Kurash
Kurash is an ancient type of martial art which originated in the territory of modern Uzbekistan. According to the latest scientific research the age of Kurash is at least three and a half thousand years.
Kurash is an Uzbek word which means – reaching the goal with in a just or fair way. Since its birth until recent times Kurash was used as a martial art and for public entertainment during major holidays, feasts and wedding parties.
Quick Facts
- The first Kurash world senior championship was held in May 1999 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
- The Kurash uniform includes wide white trousers and a loose shirt. An essential part of the uniform is a fabric belt used to hold an opponent
- Kurash competitions are held on a special mat with thickness of at least 5cm divided in three areas
Days of competition: 3 days
Competition dates: 20–22 September
Medal events: 15
Competition venue: Martial Arts Arena
Competition dates: 20–22 September
Medal events: 15
Competition venue: Martial Arts Arena
