Traditional Sports and Games, deeply rooted in local cultures and communities, represent a viable alternative to growing concerns about the Olympic model (see Part 1)
What are Traditional Sports and Games?
Traditional Sports and Games hold a unique place in the hearts of communities worldwide. They are more than just physical activities; they reflect cultural heritage, social values, and community bonds.
These games are often passed down through generations, serving as a link between the past and the present. Events have a smaller environmental footprint and can provide substantial social and economic benefits without the extensive costs associated with the Olympics.
With Traditional Sports and Games, there is …
Cultural Preservation: Traditional sports and games help preserve cultural heritage and provide a sense of identity and continuity. They celebrate local traditions and history, fostering pride and a deeper connection to one’s roots.
Community Engagement: These games are often community-centric, involving people of all ages and backgrounds. They promote social interaction, teamwork, and community spirit, strengthening social bonds and creating a sense of belonging.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Traditional sports and games are typically more accessible and less costly than large-scale events like the Olympics. They require minimal infrastructure and equipment, making them more inclusive for people from all economic backgrounds.
Health and Well-Being: Traditional sports and games promote physical activity, essential for health and well-being. These activities are often less competitive and more focused on enjoyment and participation, encouraging more people to get involved.
Environmental Sustainability: Traditional sports and games usually have a smaller ecological footprint than modern sporting events. They often occur in natural settings and require minimal construction, aligning with sustainability principles.
Example: World Nomad Games 2024
UNESCO has patronaged the 5th World Nomad Games, which will take place in Astana, Kazakhstan, from September 8 to 13, 2024. The event celebrates the cultural heritage and traditional sports of nomadic civilizations. It features a variety of events, including horseback riding, archery, wrestling, and other conventional sports passed down through generations. The World Nomad Games offer an alternative model to the Olympics, emphasizing cultural exchange, community involvement, and environmental sustainability. By highlighting traditional sports, the Games help preserve cultural heritage and promote a sense of global community. The success of events like the World Nomad Games demonstrates a growing audience for sports deeply rooted in local cultures and traditions.
A Way Forward
The reluctance to host the Olympics reflects a broader shift in how global sports events are viewed and prioritized. While the Olympics remain a symbol of international cooperation and athletic excellence, the current model is unsustainable for many potential host cities. That is why we need to address the scale and scope of the Games.
Implementing stricter financial controls, prioritizing environmental sustainability, and fostering greater appreciation and support for Traditional Sports and Games could provide alternative avenues for cultural expression and international camaraderie.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has started recognizing these issues and is taking steps to address them. The introduction of the “New Norm” reforms in 2018 aims to make the bidding process more flexible and the Games more cost-effective and sustainable. These reforms include encouraging the use of existing facilities, reducing the size of new constructions, and increasing transparency in budgeting. However, more needs to be done to ensure that the Olympics align with the values of sustainability, inclusivity, and long-term community benefit. Encouraging greater community involvement in the planning process, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring that the Games leave a positive legacy for host cities are essential steps.
As we navigate these challenges, we must remember sports’ core values: unity, respect, and excellence. By aligning these values with sustainable practices and community-focused approaches, we can ensure that global sports events continue to inspire and bring people together in meaningful ways.
That makes Traditional Sports and Games a viable alternative to the traditional Olympic model.
