Altyn Akylbek, Kazakhstan: "Mas-wrestling has become not just a sport for me, but a part of my life"

«Mas-wrestling entered my life while studying at the Kazakh National Research Technical University named after K.I. Satpaev. One day in physical education class, the teacher announced an upcoming master class in this sport. Since I had been involved in sports since childhood, I became interested in trying my hand at it, the heroine recounts her journey in mas-wrestling. - My first experience was exciting for me. Soon I participated in the Rector's Cup, where I represented my institute, and our team won second place. This inspired me to continue training. A full-fledged section for mas-wrestling opened at the university, and I began to actively participate in various competitions – both local and national level. A year later, I competed in the Kazakhstan Championship, where I took second place. The competitions showed me that mas-wrestling is not just about pulling a stick, but a sport that requires strength, tactics, and character.

In the following years, I participated in the largest international tournaments, including the stages of the World Cup in 2017, the Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan in 2018. In 2018, at the III World Mas-wrestling Championship in Yakutsk, I took third place, becoming a bronze medalist. In 2021, I was awarded the title of Master of Sports in mas-wrestling.

Alongside my sports career, I built a professional one – I got an education in the field of safety and labor protection, graduated with a master's degree, and became a master of technical sciences. I have always believed that sports and a technical specialty can harmoniously combine.

Since 2021, due to an injury, I could not continue competing in tournaments. But I did not leave mas-wrestling. Not at all. I continue to engage in my favorite activity, but in another role – I help organize competitions and refereeing. Since then, I have worked as a referee at both national and international tournaments. In 2024, I had the honor of being a referee at the V World Nomad Games, and then I became a member of the judging panel for the VI World Mas-wrestling Championship in Bishkek.

Mas-wrestling has become not just a sport for me, but a part of my life. Even in school years, I dreamed of representing my country on the international stage, seeing the flag of Kazakhstan raised high and feeling proud of my achievements. My dream came true thanks to mas-wrestling. This sport has given me a lot, and I am happy to be a part of it!»