National Sports Day, celebrated as part of the Nauryznam decade, is an important event dedicated to promoting the history and spiritual culture of the Kazakh people. Internationally, national sports often serve as an effective tool for preserving cultural heritage and developing tourism. For example, in Japan, sumo is not only a sporting event but also a symbol of national culture and educational traditions. In Kazakhstan, traditional sports such as falconry, kokpar, and Kazakh wrestling contribute to the revival of national culture and spiritual heritage, and instill a sense of patriotism in young people.
Falconry is one of the ancient and noble traditions of the Kazakh people, an integral part of the national culture. This art instills patience, courage, and respect for nature.
We spoke with Aisholpan Nurgayypkyzy, a renowned Kazakh falconer who has received international recognition, to learn her opinion on the significance of this art and the importance of preserving national traditions. Aisholpan Nurgayypkyzy, how did you become a falconer?
I was born in Mongolia and grew up in a typical rural environment. We have four children – two sons and two daughters, and I am the second.
For our family, falconry is not just an occupation or a hobby, but a sacred tradition passed down from generation to generation. It has been preserved in our family for seven generations. My grandfather was a renowned falconer, and my father and older brother also continue this tradition, raising and training golden eagles. I grew up in this environment, observing the bird's keen eye and majestic flight from childhood.
From an early age, I was around falconers, witnessing their hard work, patience, and special respect for the birds. All this gradually shaped my interest in this art, and over time, I decided to follow the path of falconry myself.
This is an ancient and unique tradition of the Kazakh people. Falconry is more than just hunting; it's a spiritual legacy left to us by our ancestors, an important part of our national culture. Therefore, it's a great responsibility for me to preserve this art and pass it on to the younger generation.
– What place do you see in falconry in Kazakh culture and the system of national sports?
– Falconry occupies a special and significant place in Kazakh culture and national sports. This art teaches patience, courage, and the ability to live in harmony with nature. It continues and preserves our national traditions.
– What qualities should a falconer possess?
– In my opinion, above all, a falconer must be calm, patient, and kind. This art requires great responsibility, a keen sense of compassion, and love and respect for the bird. A falconer must be attentive and careful in every action, able to understand the bird's character and justify its trust. Courage, concentration, and perseverance are also essential qualities in this profession.
Your name has been included in the Guinness Book of World Records. How significant is this achievement for you?

I achieved this result through many years of hard work. Preparing and training a golden eagle is a complex process that requires a great deal of patience and time. Above all, I believe this was made possible by the will of the Almighty, as well as the support of my parents, loved ones, and the entire Kazakh people. Furthermore, I have had the opportunity to travel abroad, visiting 32 countries. Films shot in these countries have provided an opportunity to widely present Kazakh culture and the art of falconry. For me, this is not just a personal achievement; it is a great honor to share our national traditions with the world.

What would you like to say to young people on the eve of National Sports Day?

Congratulations to everyone on National Sports Day! I wish the youth to value our ancient traditions and strive to pass them on to future generations. To those interested in falconry, I advise patience, heeding the guidance of experienced masters, and striving to understand the natural character of the bird. The most important thing is to approach this art with sincere love and soul. Only when a person learns to live in harmony with nature will they truly discover the meaning of this art.