Kyrgyz athletes triumph at Ottoman-era archery championship in Turkiye

Kyrgyz athletes win gold and silver at Istanbul’s Fetih Cup, a centuries-old archery event celebrating Ottoman conquest of Constantinople

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (MNTV) — The Kyrgyz national team delivered a strong performance at the prestigious Fetih Kupası traditional archery tournament in Istanbul, securing both gold and silver medals in a field that drew more than 500 athletes from over 50 countries.

According to the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports of the Kyrgyz Republic, Yntymak Muradil Uulu claimed first place in the men’s individual category, while Asel Sadyrova won silver in the women’s division, earning second place overall.

The tournament, held annually at the historic Okçular Vakfı (Archers’ Foundation) in Istanbul, commemorates the 1453 conquest of Constantinople by Sultan Mehmet II. Regarded as one of the most prestigious traditional archery events globally, the competition is noted for its elaborate organization, often surpassing even the World Championship in scale and heritage appeal.

Established over 560 years ago by the Ottoman conqueror himself, the Okçular Vakfı is Turkey’s oldest and largest archery complex. The Fetih Kupası (Conquest Cup) brings together archers from around the world who compete not only in skill but also in cultural representation, donning traditional attire that reflects their national heritage.

This year’s event transformed the historic venue into a vibrant, multicultural display of tradition and sport. Turkish participants wore Ottoman-era clothing, while competitors from Central Asia, including Mongolia and Kazakhstan, showcased Turkic-Mongol warrior costumes. A Norwegian team added a Nordic touch, emphasizing the diverse global appeal of the tournament.

The Fetih Kupası continues to grow in international stature, celebrating not only the legacy of archery but also fostering cross-cultural dialogue through shared historical traditions. For Kyrgyzstan, the medals mark a significant achievement on the world stage of traditional sports.