By Azergold Cjsc

Copyright trend

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, September 15. A new rowing
canal has opened in Kazakhstan’s Turkestan, Trend reports via the
Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan.

The facility is the first of its kind in Central Asia and fully
complies with the standards of the International Canoe Federation
(ICF) and the International Rowing Federation (FISA)

“Today, following the president’s instructions, we inaugurate
one of the country’s top sports facilities. The construction meets
international standards, giving us a venue for global competitions.
Importantly, the complex will also benefit residents, with plans
for volleyball, football, and basketball courts, as well as a city
beach,” said Erbol Myrzabosynov, Minister of Tourism and Sports, at
the opening ceremony.

Currently, rowing, canoeing, and slalom are practiced in 12
regions of Kazakhstan, with 6,131 athletes and 174 coaches involved
nationwide. Rowing is one of the most medal-rich Olympic sports,
offering 14 medal events at the Games and more than 20 disciplines
at World Championships, providing countries the chance to excel
across multiple categories while fostering both individual and team

The canal spans 100 hectares with a length of about 2.5 km. It
combines multiple functions: hosting international competitions in
rowing, canoeing, and kayaking, including World Cup and Asian Cup
events, while also serving as a regular training base for athletes.
The canal’s water is additionally used for city irrigation and
green space maintenance. On-site amenities include a 1 km city
beach, a hotel, and spectator stands.

The project is expected to significantly contribute to
Turkestan’s sports, ecological, and tourism development,
positioning the canal as a key hub for the growth of rowing in
Kazakhstan and the preparation of national teams, while supporting
the development of young athletes.