With the Mongolian Wrestling Association, SDC organized a friendship tournament in the Baganuur District during the National Naadam Festival. This event wasn't just about competition; it was a blend of two ancient sports, Swiss Schwingen and Mongolian Bökh, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie, respect, and friendly rivalry.
Swiss Schwingen and Mongolian Bökh have deep historical roots and are integral to their respective cultures. Schwingen, which originated in rural Switzerland, dates back to the 13th century and has evolved into a nationally celebrated sport. A major Schwingen competition is hosted every three years, and the winner is honored with the title “King”. Similarly, Bökh is a central element of Mongolian culture, with a history that stretches back to the time of Chinggis Khaan.
The Friendship Tournament is a vibrant fusion of these two wrestling styles, held in Mongolia to promote cultural exchange and mutual respect between the two nations. The event highlights the universal values of peace and friendship through a shared passion for wrestling.
Organized right after the National Naadam Festival’s wrestling tournament, this year’s Friendship Tournament featured 12 wrestlers, including three from Switzerland. In the National Tournament, 512 wrestlers competed, showcasing the importance and scale of the event. Among the Swiss wrestlers, Christian Stucki, a renowned wrestler with the King title, stood out by defeating all of his Mongolian counterparts. Meanwhile, Mongolian wrestler Bolot triumphed over two Swiss wrestlers.
The Friendship Tournament serves as a bridge between different cultures, promoting peace, understanding, and mutual respect. By bringing together wrestlers from two ancient traditions, the tournament underscores wrestling’s universal appeal and the shared values that underpin the sport.
For the wrestlers, it is an opportunity to test their skills against different styles, gain new perspectives, and forge lasting friendships. For spectators, it offers a unique blend of athleticism and cultural celebration, enriching their appreciation of both sports.
From August 2-4, the President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd, will pay an official visit to Mongolia at the invitation of Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh. Her Excellency Amherd, who is also the Minister of Defense, Social Protection, and Sports, has a keen interest in Schwingen. To commemorate her visit, SDC will organize a special photo exhibition of the Friendship Tournament, celebrating the wrestlers and the event.
The Friendship Tournament between Swiss and Mongolian wrestlers is a testament to the power of sports as a unifying force. It celebrates the rich heritage of two ancient wrestling traditions while promoting cultural exchange and mutual respect. As the tournament continues to grow, it is a shining example of how sports can bridge cultural divides and foster global harmony. Whether you are a wrestling fan or a curious observer, the Friendship Tournament offers a captivating and enriching experience that transcends borders.
