Kokpar: Mongolia’s Legendary Game of Headless Goat Tug-Of-War

In the remote reaches of western Mongolia live the Kazakh people, the largest ethnic minority in the country. For centuries, they have embraced a nomadic lifestyle, standing as proud guardians of their cultural heritage. Constantly on the move and living in harmony with the natural world, their current way of life is deeply intertwined with their history and customs. From the gers they live in, to the traditional clothing they wear, preserving their heritage holds great significance for them. Among the centuries-old customs that define Kazakh identity, none is more unique or eccentric than Kokpar, a thrilling game of tug-of-war played with the headless carcass of a goat.

The headless carcass of a goat.

Kokpar is believed to have originated with Genghis Khan's mounted raiders in the early 13th century. This thrilling game served both as a form of entertainment and as a crucial training exercise for warriors, honing skills vital for survival and warfare on the Mongolian steppes. In ancient times, Kokpar allowed men to improve their horsemanship, enabling them to pick up wounded comrades or animals at high speed—a skill that could mean the difference between life and death in battle.

Kokpar ompetitors await their turn at the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival.

As centuries passed, Kokpar evolved into a significant cultural event, embodying the spirit of the Kazakh people. While it maintained its roots in military training, it also became a celebration of community and heritage. Tournaments emerged during festivals, providing an opportunity for communities to gather and strengthen social bonds. Participants competed not only for glory but also for cultural pride. Today, Kokpar remains a reflection of Kazakh identity, showcasing the skills and values that have shaped the culture over generations. The game has remained largely unchanged throughout Mongolia's history and still retains the raw energy and excitement that have captivated audiences for centuries. 

The game of Kokpar itself is an exhilarating blend of equestrian prowess, raw strength, and unwavering determination. Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, two players on opposing horses grapple for control of the goat carcass as their steeds gallop in opposing directions. If the momentum falters, referees quickly intervene, cracking their whips to spur the horses back into action, sending them scattering across the field.

A Kokpar referee with a horse whip. 

The playing area is framed by towering mountains, creating an imaginary boundary that defines the Kokpar arena. Competitors wait on horseback for their turn, eager and poised on the sidelines, while spectators gather from all corners to witness the absolute insanity that is Kokpar. The unpredictability of the game adds to its excitement; while the goal of each match remains consistent, the various elements that shape the game lead to unique outcomes every time. Horses often surge into the crowd as participants focus intently on gaining control of the goat carcass. Riders even find themselves clinging to the side of their horses for dear life, occasionally being unseated and dragged along as onlookers rush to stop their runaway mounts. Chaos plays a crucial role in the experience.

Competitors grapple for a goat carcass. 

Each match unfolds in a single-elimination format, pitting riders against one another until a grand champion emerges. Some contests end in an instant, while others stretch into intense battles that test the riders’ endurance and grit. Amidst this thrilling whirlwind of the Kokpar tournament, the local Kazakh people grow increasingly familiar with the local vodka, and the cheers and jeers of the crowd swell, creating a charged atmosphere that transforms this traditional game into a one-of-a-kind spectacle unlike anything else on earth.

Kokpar competitors prepare for a match at the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia.

Kokpar is often played during significant cultural events, serving as a main draw for attendees. The Nomad Games, an annual celebration of traditional sports across Central Asia, provide a grand stage for Kokpar and other similar traditional Central Asian sports like Buzkashi. Here, participants compete in various traditional events, showcasing their skills in wrestling, archery, and, of course, Kokpar. These games reflect the Kazakh way of life, bringing together families and communities to honor their shared heritage.

Kokpar is also showcased at Mongolia’s eagle hunting festivals, where the Kazakh people come together to celebrate their unique relationship with nature, particularly their connection to the majestic golden eagles they train for hunting. These festivals prominently feature Kokpar, underscoring the deep bond between the Kazakh people and their traditions. Amidst the stunning mountain scenery, the air is filled with the aromas of traditional Mongolian dishes, the melodic sounds of traditional music, and the calls of golden eagles soaring above. While tourists flock from around the world to see the eagles in action, Mongolians show up in droves for the concluding event: Kokpar.

The Grand Champion of the Sagsai Eagle Festival Kokpar tournament.

If you ever find yourself in the western part of Mongolia, be sure to seek out the Kazakh people and catch a game of Kokpar. Stand on the sidelines, soak in the atmosphere, and witness a spectacle that is both violent and beautiful. It’s a celebration of life, heritage, and the unbreakable bonds that tie the Kazakh people to their past and to each other. Watching Kokpar is a once-in-a-lifetime experience thats worth visiting Mongolia to see, but if you have a soft spot for goats, you might want to catch a soccer game instead.