On 26 July, the Central Hippodrome in Issyk-Kul hosted the national horse racing tournament “Muras,” the first event of its scale since 1992. Minister of Agriculture Bakyt Torobaev highlighted Kyrgyzstan’s ambition to lead equestrian sports in Central Asia, supported by state initiatives and President Sadyr Zhaparov’s leadership. The country has seen growing international interest in Kyrgyz horses, with over 200 exported this year alone. The ministry is also advancing horse breeding through state stud farm No. 54, focusing on native and hybrid breeds.

The Muras tournament serves as both a sporting event and a cultural symbol, embodying the spirit of the Manas epic and Kyrgyz heritage. Drawing hundreds of guests from Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries, it has boosted tourism infrastructure around Issyk-Kul. With over 2.8 million foreign visitors in the first half of 2025 and significant tourism revenue growth, the event strengthens Kyrgyzstan’s cultural image and attracts investment in tourism and sports development.