From failed exams to national records: Akalka's relentless athletic journey
Akalka’s love for sports began in childhood, with dreams of becoming a coach. Her journey took unexpected turns—from failed exams to engineering work—but she never left athletics behind. Now, she holds national records and competes in races worldwide. As a schoolgirl, Akalka joined district and regional tournaments with her team. After eighth grade, she enrolled in Karaganda Physical Education College but failed the swimming test. Forced to return home, she shifted focus to studies and later secured an industrial internship in Chelyabinsk.
She was soon hired as an underground gas protection engineer by a regional company. While working in Khromtau, she met Aman, her future husband. Despite her engineering career, sports remained central to her life. In 2019, an advertisement for a marathon in Uralsk caught her attention. This event reignited her passion, leading her to compete in marathons, half-marathons, ultras, and sprints across different countries. Her achievements grew: at the Kazakhstan Athletics Championship in Karaganda, she won gold in long jump and shot put, plus a third medal. By 2023, Akalka had set national records in javelin and hammer throw. She also claimed silver in her age group for an open-water 500-metre swim. Alongside competitions, she spent eight months mentoring a youth basketball team at a local sports school.
From early setbacks to engineering work, Akalka’s path was far from straightforward. Today, she balances athletics with mentorship, holding records and medals in multiple disciplines. Her story shows how determination can turn childhood dreams into lasting achievements.
