American Cowboys Build Bridges of Friendship at World Nomad Games
The captain and athletes of the USA Kok-Boru team, competing in the organization in Kyrgyzstan, developed international friendships through traditional equestrian sports.
Ladd Howell, captaining the USA Kok-Boru team at the sixth World Nomad Games held in Kyrgyzstan, and his teammates forged meaningful friendships with athletes from different cultures during traditional equestrian competitions.
The Sixth Games in Kyrgyzstan
The sixth World Nomad Games were held between August 31 and September 6, 2026, in the cities of Bishkek and Cholpon-Ata in Kyrgyzstan.
The Kok-Boru Team's Struggle
In the challenging Kok-Boru sport, also referred to as goat rugby, the US team was captained by Ladd Howell, while the roster included Zanen Pitts, Jase Nisveta, John Forsgren, Brett Miller, Brian Ewell, Nick Willert, Afton Caldwell, and Wyatt Mortenson.
Captain Howell's Performance
Despite losing all three matches played throughout the tournament, captain Ladd Howell, competing for the US team, scored a total of 15 goals and won great appreciation from local fans and host officials.
Cultural Interaction and Communication
Competing with athletes from different countries such as Iran, the American athletes used translation applications to overcome the language barrier and established sincere bonds by sharing small gifts like chocolate.
Meeting with President Japarov
Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov met with captain Ladd Howell, who continued to compete after a fall from his horse during a visit to Utah, embraced him, and described him as a hero.