International athletes at the 5th World Nomad Games: traditional archers share their stories
The 5th World Nomad Games, held in Astana, Kazakhstan, have drawn athletes from across the globe, showcasing nomadic sports like traditional archery. With participants from as far as Singapore, Germany, and Italy, the games offer a unique platform for competitors to immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions. Each athlete brings a personal journey and connection to the sport, many of whom discovered archery through unexpected paths. Kazinform correspondents share their stories.
Italian Archers: Passion for history
Italy’s Stefano Dell’Orbo and Federico Raffa, who both traveled to Kazakhstan for their first World Nomad Games, have a deep-rooted love for history that led them to archery. "I started archery seven years ago out of curiosity," said Stefano, while Federico began eight years ago, inspired by his friend Nando, president of their sports association.
In Italy, their archery experiences mostly revolve around shooting in the woods or historical settings, but the nomadic style of archery has captured their imaginations. "We love the challenge of shooting far, and we want to bring more of this nomadic style back to Italy," Federico noted. Both athletes praised the hospitality and beauty of Kazakhstan, describing their experience as a heartwarming one.
Azan Rahim: A Turkish TV show inspiration
Singaporean archer Azan Rahim didn’t initially have an interest in archery until Turkish historical dramas piqued his curiosity. "I tried archery for fun after watching a Turkish series with archers. What started as just an activity quickly became a passion," he shared. For Azan, archery has become more than a sport—it’s a form of life philosophy. "Archery taught me patience and how to control my ego. It’s about doing the right thing at the right time, both in archery and life."
This is Azan’s first time in Kazakhstan, and he’s been captivated by the cool weather and the cultural melting pot that is the World Nomad Games. "It’s like an Olympic Games for nomads—different ethnic groups, tribes, and cultures coming together. It’s a high-level competition, but it’s also a celebration."
Stephanie Behrendt: From horseback archery to traditional expertise
Stephanie Behrendt from Germany initially ventured into archery as a way to bond with her horses. "I bought a bow just for fun, to have something different to do together with my horse," she said. However, what began as a hobby soon became a passion. “I went to a special training for thumb technique, and that was the turning point for me.” Stephanie focuses on traditional archery but still keeps horseback archery as part of her routine.
This is her first time in Kazakhstan, although not her first World Nomad Games, as she previously competed in Kyrgyzstan. She noted the larger scale and organization of this year’s event, particularly impressed by the opening ceremony. Outside of archery, Stephanie is a teacher with a love for horse riding and pottery, embodying the balance between sport and personal interests.
Meike Stamer: Archery in the midst of a pandemic
Maike Stamer’s journey into archery began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when indoor activities were limited. “In Germany, you have to go outside if you want to make something, so I begin with archery,” she explained. For her, archery’s unique combination of focus and movement is what captivated her. "You walk, focus, and shoot.” There's no place for thinking about the outside world; it's just the archer and the target.
Maike, like Stephanie, is also a teacher, and she expressed amazement at Kazakhstan’s vastness and the impressive scale of the games. “It's very impressive for me. It's a big city, and everything is well prepared and has a fantastic surrounding,” she said.
Verena Hohoff: A decade of traditional archery
For Verena Hohoff, also from Germany, traditional archery has been a passion for over 10 years. Verena started with building bows, which led her to Mediterranean archery. Eventually, she transitioned to traditional archery with a short bow and thumb ring. She finds the simplicity of traditional archery compelling, describing it as "the most natural way to shoot a bow."
Outside of archery, Verena is a principal and teacher, with interests in motorbiking and pottery. She encourages her students to try archery, some of whom have taken up the sport. This is Verena’s first visit to Kazakhstan, and while she hasn’t explored much outside of Astana, she’s noticed the rapid development of the city and is fascinated by how nomadic traditions are kept alive through sports like archery.
