Kydyrgali Ongarbaev took first place in his weight category on the right hand, and then brightly performed in the open weight category taking third place and leaving behind such eminent stars as Dmitry Silaev, Vitaly Laletin, Krasimir Kostadinov. The Kazakh athlete lost only to Levan Saginashvili. Today we asked the champion a few questions to learn more about him.

When did you start arm wrestling?

I have been engaged in arm-wrestling since I was 10 years old.

How did you get into this sport? What attracted you?

The history of armwrestling in Shardara begins in 2000, and I got into this sport after seeing how the older guys are training. In addition, I lived next door to Arman Karsibaev, the chief coach of the club.

What has changed in your life since the advent of armwrestling?

I have a healthy lifestyle, I have found many friends around the world. People in the street recognize me and most importantly - I'm one of the best in the world.

Do you have a favorite pulling style?

I'm pulling mostly in top-roll. Top-roll is more convenient for me.

How are your trainings going? Who trains you?

Training is going well. My coach is the club’s head coach Arman Karsibaev. Recently we had a 10 days sport camp in the mountains. I’m sure I will be 100% ready for the World Championship and the World Cup.

Which match in your career was especially difficult for you?

I think the most difficult was the struggle with Dimitri Silayev at the "Zloty Tur” 2017.

What would you recommend to the newcomers?

At the very beginning it is very important to set a goal and go only forward.

What do you do in your life?

I work in the civil service. I'm in charge of sports and physical culture. By the way, my boss and the head of all sports of Shardara is also an arm wrestler, two-time World Champion, Shynbolat Raykhanov.

What are your plans for this year? Where will you perform?

This year I plan to perform at the World Championships in Turkey and the Zloty Tur in Poland.