Youth and Junior SAMBO in Kazakhstan: Aktau Hosts Major National Championships

The city of Aktau in Kazakhstan has just wrapped up the Youth and Junior SAMBO Championships of the Republic of Kazakhstan, featuring both Sport and Combat SAMBO for athletes under 23. On June 5-6, more than 200 promising young competitors from across the country took to the mats, vying for medals named in honor of the legendary wrestler Salamatuly Karaldy.

This tournament marked the second major national SAMBO event hosted by Aktau this year – a clear sign of the sport’s dynamic growth in the region. And Aktau isn’t slowing down: just days later, on June 10, the city will host the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Beach SAMBO Championships for adults.

The youth event was not only about intense competition, but also about real sporting opportunities. Gold and silver medalists were awarded the prestigious title of Master of Sport of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Athletes who placed 3rd to 5th successfully secured or confirmed their status as Candidates for Master of Sport.

In the team standings, Mangystau Region claimed the top spot with 6 gold, 1 silver, and 5 bronze medals. Second place went to Kyzylorda Region with 4 gold and 3 silver medals, while the team from Almaty Region took third with 3 golds and 1 bronze.

“Holding such a high-profile youth and junior championship in Aktau is a natural step in the development of SAMBO in our region,” said Manarbek Bisekenov, Vice President of the Kazakhstan Federation of Sport and Combat SAMBO. “We’re seeing not only excellent organization, but also growing interest in our sport. I believe this tournament will serve as a springboard for future international success.”

The spotlight now turns to the upcoming Beach SAMBO Championships of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Winners and medalists there will earn valuable spots at the World Beach SAMBO Championships and Asia and Oceania Beach SAMBO Championships.