Kazakhstan allocates US$726m for construction and renovation of facilities

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In 2011, Kazakhstan will host the 7th Winter Asian Games. Kazakh Minister of Sports, Timur Dosymbetov, is the Director General of the Games’ Executive Body and the Government of Kazakhstan has allocated US$726 million for the construction and renovation of facilities.

The Organizing Committee has decided to hold the Games in two Kazakh cities - to capitalize on the advantages afforded by the country’s diverse climate and rich natural conditions.

The area around Almaty, in the South, is perfect for competitions like Alpine skiing, biathlon and short-track - and ‘Medeo’, a high mountain skating rink, is currently under reconstruction for such events. Not far from this venue - almost 2000 meters above sea level and 3620 meters long - is the Shimbulak ski resort, and in the foothills of Zailiyskiy, Alatau – there is a new ski-biathlon stadium being built. In all, the ski area will be increased five-fold from the current 5 km to 65 km and Almaty airport is being upgraded. Other Asiad Games venues are situated in the capital Astana, where modern stadia and sport complexes are also being erected.

According to a provisional programme, it is planned to hold competitions in 12 separate sporting events, and to award 65 sets of medals. More than 2000 athletes from 26 Asian countries will take part in the Games.

From 1999 Kazakh athletes have participated in the Asian Games: in all, Kazakh athletes have won 92 gold, 95 silver and 129 bronze medals - placing the country just behind Japan, China and South Korea in the ratings.

A keen sportsman, President Nazarbayev designated sport as one of the best ways to have Kazakhstan recognized on the international scene – and in April 2008, the President participated in the Olympic torch relay ceremony – personally carrying the torch along the streets of Almaty on its way to Beijing. Kazakhstan will have an opportunity to become a host-country for the Winter Olympic Games in 2018 after successfully hosting the Asian Games.