The archers participating reflected a huge variety of interests and heritage. The Australian archery delegation included Merjem Colan, who trains at the Maydaan Archery Club in Sydney, a unique club which promotes Islamic Ottoman archery heritage in the city.
Merjem and her team were some of the highest placed Western athletes in competition. “We practice Ottoman archery as more than a sport, we connect the technical skill with our history, character and community. While Australia’s traditional archery scene is spread across different organisations, that diversity gives people many ways to enter through culture, competition and craftsmanship,” she said.
“We trained through traditional Ottoman methodology, using repetition and foundational practices like kepaze and torba to develop consistency, precision and composure under pressure. But our training also develops the whole person, the internal alongside the external through discipline, patience, humility and good character,” added Merjem.
What was the most interesting part for you? “The most interesting aspect of the competition was definitely the nomadic culture. Seeing the landscape of Kyrchyn Gorge, it became clear why the nomadic tradition survives for so long in those mountains. It was beautiful to see the continuation and passing down of many of the skills from one generation to the next. Especially for me, I was amazed by the textile traditions and of course, horseback riding!”
The international traditional archery scene is governed by the World Traditional Archery Federation, who oversee an annual World Cup among much else. It maintains a living tradition that connects us not just to history, but to a dedicated global community of practitioners.
Indeed, the true value of the World Nomad Games was the vibrant celebration of shared human heritage, and we found ourselves warmly welcomed into the global nomadic tribe.
The next World Nomad Games will be held in Kazan in 2028.
Some photos courtesy Pablo Ruiz-Múzquiz
