The RUSSIA EXPO hosted the All-Russian spine bone breaking competition "Seer Khukhalkha"

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All-Russian competitions in the traditional Buryat game - breaking the spine bone "Һeer shaalgan (Seer khukhalkha)", were dedicated to Victory Day, as well as competitions in the Buryat national games "Shagai naadan" and "Talaan Tobsho naadan". The event was supported by the Autonomous noncommercial organization «Directorate of the Exhibition of Achievements "Russia"».

"Һeer shaalgan (Seer khukhalkha)" is one of the most ancient games among Buryats and Mongols. It was born during the preparation of meat for winter, when people competed in breaking one of the back vertebrae of cattle with their bare hands. The main difficulty was that the blow had to be very strong, accurate and sharp at the same time. Nowadays, this sport is popular not only in the Republic of Buryatia and regions of Russia, but also in other countries — such as China, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia and Saudi Arabia. In 2020, "Һeer shaalgan" was recognized as the national sport of Buryatia.

"This traditional game of the Buryats has existed since ancient times and is now also a favorite sport in Buryatia. The competition is judged quite simply: the participant who does not break a bone from the first blow is out, and the winners go on to the next round, and so on until there is one winner left. So, the chance to win depends not only on skill, but also on the number of participants," said Bolot Tsoktoev, head of the national sports department of the SAI RB ‘Directorate of Sports Facilities’ of the Ministry of Sport and Youth Policy of the Republic of Buryatia.

The competitions ended with a solemn awarding ceremony for the winners and prize-winners. They were awarded commemorative medals, diplomas and cash prizes in the categories "Women", "Men under 39 years old" and "Men over 40 years old". Separate prizes were awarded to the youngest (8 years old) and the oldest (54 years old) participants of the competitions.

In addition, the winners and runners-up received special medals from the RUSSIA EXPO Directorate. These exclusive awards are made in the shape of a heart.

"The strength of our people is in their loyalty to traditions. Many thanks to everyone who came and supported the game, who clapped, watched and rejoiced with us. I hope you enjoyed the Buryat traditional games. Happiness to you, love and our strong Siberian health," addressed to the guests of the ceremony the president of the Interregional Public Organization 'Federation of the National Game ‘Seer Khukhalkha’' Gombo Zurbakov.

The International RUSSIA EXPO is the most important achievements of the country gathered in one place. Throughout the Exposition, cultural events, a rich business and educational program await the guests. The expositions of 89 Russian regions, leading federal agencies, corporations and public organizations are presented to the visitors. More than 12 million people have already visited the Exposition. The International RUSSIA EXPO takes place at VDNH in Moscow from November 4 to July 8.