History
It is a traditional sport that requires the ability to direct the horse with body movement without holding the reins of the horse while it is galloping and to shoot at the target with an arrow at the same time. It is known that Turkish horse archers have been on the battlefield throughout history, using tactics such as hit-and-run, fake retreat, and surrounding the enemy. The first records regarding the sport come from 13th-century Mamluk geography. It is seen that objects such as pigeons, ducks, silver balls, and apples were used in the performance of the sport in different Turkish cultural circles. The horse archer's target shots are classified as "Kabak (pumpkin) shots" and "Kıgaç shots."
"Kabak shots" was a game that allocated special areas and was very popular until the 17th century. Squares called "kabak squares" in some cities take their name from this shot. Although "kıgaç" does not have a clear definition, it is considered a general shooting technique used for all kinds of targets placed on the ground.
Horseback archery, one of the performing forms of Turkish archery, was registered on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2019.
Rules
The basic equipment of athletes in horse archery includes a bow, arrows, an arrow holder (tirkeş), and a bow container (quiver). During performances, athletes are required to wear traditional clothes and use traditional equipment.
Today, horse archery competitions are held in two types: Tablan Bendi (Turkish Course) and Kabak Bendi. In the Tablan Bendi, three targets at different distances are hit with arrows. Hitting a 15 cm diameter area of the target receives +6 points, hitting a 30 cm diameter area receives +4 points, and hitting an outer area receives +2 points. Athletes receive +1 point if they adjust their speed correctly and hit at least two targets in less than 10 seconds; if it takes longer, they receive -1 point. Their score is reset for the round if they take 14 seconds or more.
The Kabak Bendi consists of two targets: "Kikaç" and "Kabak." The target on the ground is called "Kikaç." The gourd target, "Kabak," involves the horse archer galloping towards the target, leaning on their horse's neck, and turning upwards to shoot. Targets are located to the right, left, and behind. The athlete's score increases the closer they hit to the center of the target. Hitting the gourd provides the highest score.
