The World Combat Games are an international multi-sport event featuring combat sports and martial arts. Both Olympic and non-Olympic sports are on the programme, among them Aikido, Boxing, Judo, Ju-Jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Kickboxing, Muaythai, Sambo, Sumo, Taekwondo, Wrestling and Wushu.
The World Combat Games were initiated by SportAccord, the umbrella organisation for international sports federations and organizers of sports events, in order to bring these sports closer to a worldwide public. The World Combat Games are accompanied by a cultural program that reflects the ancient traditions and values of martial arts as well as well as their contribution to modern society.[1]
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The first edition of the World Combat Games was held 2010 in Beijing. Over 1000 athletes from all five continents participated. About the same number of volunteers helped to deliver the event. During the eight days of competitions 118 gold medals were awarded. Medals were won by 60% of the nations taking part in the Games, and also by not traditional combat sports nations. Russia lead the medal table with 18 gold medals, followed by China (15) and the Ukraine (7).[2]
The second edition of the World Combat Games are going to be held in Saint Petersburg.[3] In these Games, the sports of Savate (French Boxing) and Fencing will make their debut there.