The Lion of Limassol: A Powerhouse Nomad’s Journey to Global Fame
The Nomadic Spirit of Cyprus
Cyprus, a land rich in history and culture, is home to more than just ancient ruins and sun-kissed beaches. It is a land of modern-day nomads, where people are constantly on the move—studying, working, or living abroad. From students in London to professionals in Berlin, Cypriots are a global community. Even within Cyprus, this spirit thrives; expats, remote workers, and refugees create a dynamic, ever-changing population.
This nomadic thread weaves through the lives of many, including the Lion of Limassol, a man who embodies the strength, resilience, and adaptability that mark both ancient and modern nomads. Recently, the Lion of Limassol took this spirit to a global stage at the 2024 World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan.
The 2024 World Nomad Games
Held every two years, the World Nomad Games celebrate ancient traditions and the enduring strength of nomadic peoples. Unlike any other sporting event, these games feature competitions that once ensured survival on the vast steppes: horseback archery, traditional wrestling, eagle hunting, and kok boru—a rugged horseback game. These events require the same adaptability and resourcefulness that modern nomads, like the Lion of Limassol, rely on today.
The Lion of Limassol, whose real name is Ilya Khazov, represented Cyprus in the five Powerful Nomads events. At 6 foot 5 and weighing 180kg, Ilya is no stranger to strength competitions. He holds a Guinness World Record for Most Skips While Holding an Anvil and has won Cyprus’ first gold medal at an international strongman event in Hungary. But the Nomad Games presented a new challenge.
The Powerful Nomads Events
In the first of the five events, the Stone Carry, Ilya faced a 100kg stone—about the weight of a large fridge. The goal? To carry it as far as possible within a minute. Despite his immense strength, the Lion of Limassol was humbled by local Kazakh competitors who used a technique he had never encountered before. While Ilya managed 45 meters, the locals carried the stone over 120 meters by rolling it up their bodies and behind their necks.
Undeterred, the Lion of Limassol continued to compete in other events, including the One-Handed Javelin Throw, the Log Lift, and the Sandbag Lift. The Sandbag Lift was particularly challenging, as it simulated the ancient task of carrying a slaughtered sheep over long distances. Despite these challenges, Ilya’s best performance came in the final event—the Cart Pull.
The Legend of the Cart Pull
The Cart Pull event is based on a local legend about a mythical giant, or batyr, who carried a lame horse and a cartful of hay back to his village. In the competition, athletes pulled a half-tonne cart across soft sand. Although Ilya didn’t win, he secured a commendable second place, earning him the title of batyr—a modern-day gentle giant.
The Lion of Limassol was embraced by the local Kazakh people, who saw in him the qualities they admired most: strength, resilience, and a warm spirit. Wherever he went, people touched his arm or chest for luck, calling him “batyr, brother, and friend.” This deep connection, forged through shared values and mutual respect, left a lasting impression on Ilya.
A Journey of Connection and Growth
The Lion of Limassol wasn’t the only one who felt this connection. Sixteen athletes from countries as diverse as Oman, Kuwait, India, Spain, Uzbekistan, and Armenia competed in the Powerful Nomads series. Ilya was proud to be the sole representative from Cyprus, carrying his country’s flag in the Opening Ceremony with pride.
The Games brought together 2,500 athletes and 1,600 volunteers, all of whom were fluent in at least three languages. The warmth and hospitality Ilya experienced reflected the essence of the World Nomad Games: a celebration of shared human values, transcending borders and cultures.
The Nomadic Legacy Continues
The Lion of Limassol’s experience at the Nomad Games is a testament to the power of connection and growth. Whether competing in Kazakhstan, building a life in London, or working remotely from a Limassol café, the spirit of nomadism lives on. We are all part of a global journey, learning from one another, building connections, and celebrating the shared values that unite us.
For Ilya, representing Cyprus on the world stage is more than just a personal achievement. It’s a way to celebrate these connections, to honor the strength and resilience that define both ancient and modern nomads. Because, in the end, we’re all on a journey—a journey we share.
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