Astana hosts Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam 2026 opening ceremony
On Saturday, May 9, the capital of Kazakhstan hosted the opening ceremony of the international judo tournament Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam 2026, bringing together 296 athletes from 36 countries, Qazinform News Agency reports.
Minister of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan Yerbol Myrzabossynov, IJF President Marius Vizer, and President of the Kazakhstan Judo Federation Kuanyshbek Yesekeyev attended the event.
Addressing the participants, Myrzabossynov emphasized the popularity of judo in Kazakhstan, noting that over 150,000 people practice the sport professionally. He also expressed gratitude to Vizer for granting Kazakhstan the right to host the 2027 Judo World Championships.
During the ceremony, the minister awarded judoka Abiba Abuzhakynova with the Order of Qurmet.
295 judokas from 36 nations will compete for top honors through May 10.
Recall that the Head of State attended the tournament.