On February 28, the traditional annual ski race “AlmaU – ZEINEP Cup” was held for the third time in the village of Lobanovo, Aiyrtau district, North Kazakhstan Region. For three consecutive years, the competition has been organized at the Higher Multidisciplinary College “Zeinep.”
AlmaU President Asylbek Kozhakhmetov delivered a greeting message from Olympic champion Vladimir Smirnov:
“Dear participants of the ski race! Welcome to the старт! May this race become the starting point for new victories, strong training sessions, and personal records. May each distance strengthen your character, build your willpower, and bring you closer to new heights. Sport is forward movement, strength of spirit, and the energy of life. You are a healthy nation. You are the future of Kazakhstan. You are the continuation of great sporting traditions. Move boldly toward the finish line! I wish each of you a successful and bright start!”
The address from the legend of Kazakhstani sport became a special and inspiring moment for all participants.
This year, the race became a significant event in the region’s sports life. For the first time in its history, the competition was organized in a team format, adding greater dynamics and competitive spirit. More than 300 participants from different regions of the country took part.
“The AlmaU – ZEINEP Cup is for everyone from the North Kazakhstan Region who came to participate, support, and showcase the beauty of our northern land,” noted Asylbek Kozhakhmetov.
The race was dedicated to the memory of outstanding athletes Samat Musin and Nikolai Ivanov, who made a significant contribution to the development of cross-country skiing in Kazakhstan. Both were born and raised in Lobanovo. Their achievements and coaching and public activities played an important role in shaping strong skiing traditions in North Kazakhstan. Today, their example continues to inspire young athletes and supporters of an active lifestyle.
In 2026, organizers placed special emphasis on the team format, which enhances not only sports competition but also teamwork, responsibility, and mutual support.
Akim of Aiyrtau District Meyram Mendybayev attended to support the athletes, noting that such well-organized and accessible events make sport truly массовым, engaging, and beneficial for everyone.
The tournament was organized by AlmaU University and the Higher Multidisciplinary College “Zeinep.” The joint initiative aims to support mass sports, develop regional sports projects, and strengthen the connection between education, social responsibility, and a healthy lifestyle.
According to the organizers, the race carries an important social mission – to promote cross-country skiing, encourage youth interest in regular physical activity, and preserve the historical sporting traditions of the Aiyrtau district and the North Kazakhstan Region.
The “AlmaU – ZEINEP Cup” became not only a sporting competition but also a meaningful social platform uniting athletes, students, teachers, local residents, and guests of the region, giving new momentum to winter sports development.