History:
Mas-Wrestling is a traditional sport from the Sakha people, integral to their physical and spiritual training. Originating in the harsh climate of the Far North, it helped develop essential physical qualities for survival. This sport, which can be practiced almost anywhere with minimal equipment, was vital for young Yakut men to be recognized as true "Bootur" or warriors.
Mas-Wrestling has been historically popular, with every Yakut participating in it at least once. Esteemed athletes like Platon Platonov and Nikolai Kolodko began their training with this sport. Its roots date back to the 17th century, and formal rules were established in the 20th century, becoming part of Yakutian sports festivals and school curriculums. The sport includes competitions in various weight categories for men, women, and young men.
Today, Mas-Wrestling enjoys widespread popularity in Russia and internationally. It was included in the International Sports Games “Children of Asia” in 2000, under the patronage of the International Olympic Committee.
Rules:
Mas-Wrestling rules are mandatory for all international competitions, requiring compliance from organizers, national team representatives, coaches, athletes, and referees. Competitions are held in individual, team, and individual-team formats, with rankings determined by individual results or combined team results. Elimination systems include elimination after 1 or 2 losses, direct elimination, consolation matches, and league format. Participants are categorized by age groups (12-13, 14-15, 16-17, 18-21, 18+, 40-49, and 50+ years for both men and women) and weight categories, with an option for an absolute championship without weight categories.
Athletes must wear designated red or blue sports attire and soft-soled shoes, and they may use personal protective equipment such as elastic bandages, special belts, and hand guards. The competition platform must meet specific dimensions (600 cm x 600 cm with a height of 20-100 cm), and the board and stick must be IMWF-approved. Referees wear white uniforms and use a video system for assistance. The Jury includes the Chief Referee, Deputy Chief Referee, Chief Secretary, and other referees, with the Chief Referee managing competitions, weigh-ins, and appeals. Weigh-ins are conducted before competitions, requiring identification documents, and matches consist of 2 or 3 rounds, with referees empowered to stop matches and disqualify athletes for rule violations. Referees evaluate movements, issue warnings, and determine disqualifications, while appeals must be submitted in writing by team representatives after matches. These rules ensure fair and orderly Mas-Wrestling competitions.
