Marat Kosybayuly Zhaksybayev (1948–2013)
A boxer and an outstanding figure who inscribed his name in golden letters in the history of sport. He was born in the city of Arys, in what is now Turkistan Region.
He graduated from the Kazakh Chemical Technology Institute with a degree in engineering and economics. In 1991, he graduated from South Kazakhstan Humanities University, qualifying as a physical education teacher and coach.
He began his working career in 1967 as a worker at the Shymkent Lead Plant. From 1973 until the end of his life, he worked in the field of sports.
He was a member of the USSR national team, a Master of Sport of the USSR, a multiple champion and a winner of numerous international competitions. In 2003, in recognition of his contributions to sport, he was nominated for a state award and received the title “Sports Figure.”
He was an honorary citizen of the cities of Shymkent and Arys.
Nelli Kim
Nelli Kim, who began training at the age of ten at the Regional Comprehensive School of Higher Sports Excellence in Shymkent, became renowned far beyond Kazakhstan.
While living in Shymkent, she achieved outstanding success in artistic gymnastics. A great athlete and multiple champion of the USSR, Europe and the world, she won five Olympic gold medals and became a legend of world sport.
The History of Football in Shymkent
Football in Shymkent has a long history. During the Soviet era, the team was established in 1960 under the name Enbek. It was later known as Metallurg (1961–1980), Meliorator (1981–1992) and Zhiger (1992–2000). In 2000, it adopted the name Dostyk, winning the hearts of local fans.
In 2003, the Ordabasy Football Club was established.
