Dosymbetov was the first President of the National Olympic Committee of independent Kazakhstan and later vice-president and secretary general of the organisation.

An Almaty citizen of origin, Dosymbetov was a member of the Soviet Union's modern pentathlon team and won various international and continental competitions before having the Honored Master of Sports title bestowed upon him.

He also served as a head coach of the Kazakhstan modern pentathlon national team having occupied several managerial positions within Dinamo sport club.

"Being involved in sports since an early age, he combined in his work will, commitment, energy and thoroughness," read a statement from the NOC of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

"Mr Dossymbetov had undertaken considerable work towards the recognition of a young country within international sports realm, using his outstanding managerial skills and leading numerous Kazakhstani sports delegations during major events such as Olympic and Asian Games.

"His deep personal integrity and intelligence always made him a reference point and his professional path is a true story of tireless work for benefit of sports and promotion of Olympic values in the Republic of Kazakhstan."

Dossymbetov was one of the co-founders of the NOC of the Republic of Kazakhstan and continued to work within the organisation until his passing from cancer. 

During his years with the NOC, Kazakhstan won numerous medals at Olympic Games and World Championships.

The country claimed a total of 13 medals at London 2012, including their best-ever haul of seven golds.

Dossymbetov was also elected as an Executive Board member of the International Modern Pentathlon Federation (UIPM) and held the "Kurmet" national order of honour.

"Modest and righteous, Mr Dossymbetov will be remembered as a person with extreme personal integrity, willingness to help in difficulties, warmth of friendship and tolerance," added the NOC statement.

"It is a moment of great sadness for Kazakhstani sports and Olympic Movement of the country."

In July, Almaty lost out to Beijing in the vote to determine the hosts of the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

The Chinese capital won by just 44 votes to 40 in what was a much narrower margin than many expected.

At the beginning of this year, Dosymbetov described Almaty's technical plan as "perfect for the Winter Games".



Related stories
October 2015: National Olympic Committee of Republic of Kazakhstan vows to continue growth following meeting with Bach
October 2015: Raising global profile a key aim for new National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan President
September 2015: AIBA vice-president Kulibayev elected National Olympic Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan President