TheMongolian Derby
About
It was the nerve system of the largest empire in human history, and at its height, Genghis Khan’s mighty horse messenger system connected half the planet. For a decade we’ve (The Equestrianists) been rebuilding this ancient network to stage the world’s greatest equine adventure race.
You cover up to 600mi of Mongolian steppe on 25-30 semi-wild horses on loan from local herders. Changing steeds every 25mi. You navigate and survive on your own wits and skill, living among the herders. It’s you and your horse vs. the wild. For ten days each August, the Mongol Derby recreates this legendary system, building a network of urtuus at 35km intervals along the entire thousand kilometer course.
There are many challenges associated with the Derby. Including, the navigation of varying terrain, extreme weather, camping along the steppe, a large language barrier and more. However, the biggest challenge and unknown factor will be the horses. They are rather small, between 12-15 hands. Although, close to the ground these little horses pack a punch. With short legs and necks they are built to be very solid and tough. They live on the steppe year round in large feral herds and have been affected minimally by outside influence since Ghengis Khan’s reign.
Riders will be riding between 75-100 miles a day, riding each horse for 25 miles between horse stations (urtuus). The horse stations are first come first serve, and you better be good at picking a solid steed, or you may end up chasing it across the Steppe. Riders will stay at urtuus, in yurts with families willing to take them in for the night, or out on the open steppe under the stars.
Photo by Laurence Squire
Photo by ABC
Photo by ABC
Race Rules
Racing hours are set to ensure everyone’s safety and the smooth running of the complex systems behind the race. Riding hours are from 07:00 to 18:00.
HORSE WELFARE
At each horse station the veterinary team will scrutinize every horse ridden in and have the power to impose time penalties for any infringements or if the horse has been mistreated. The horse should be a) sound, b) reasonably hydrated and c) return to a resting heart rate no higher than 56bpm within half an hour of coming in. Vets and race managers also have the power to impose penalties between horse stations.
WEIGHT LIMITS
Riders must be no more than 85kg dressed to ride. Each rider is allowed to carry up to 5kg of luggage. The weight limits are in place to protect the wellbeing of the horses.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE 85KG OR 5KG?
The horse’s saddle and bridle, hobbles and your stirrups or fenders are not included. Your water is not included. Riders must weigh out on Pre-Race Training Day 1, in Ulaanbaatar, and the 5kgs luggage weigh out occurs an hour before the launch.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE 85KGS
“All riding wear” - riders must elect how much to wear on the scales based on their weight and preferences. Helmets, jods and boots are non-negotiable.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 5KGS
The weight of your saddle bag and its contents, and any other containers you are carrying pockets, bumbags, camera bags etc. Your tech equipment and hydration pack if you didn’t elect to include it in your rider weight by having it on your person during rider weigh out.
SPORTSMANSHIP
More of an ethos than a rule. The spirit of the Mongol Derby is grounded in old fashioned adventure alongside pushing yourself to your physical and mental limits within the bounds of healthy sportsmanship and ensuring horse welfare. The Derby attracts incredible riders from all over the world and sportsmanship and camaraderie are in the very fabric of the race.
Photo by Richard Dunwoody
Photo by Shari Thompson
Photo by Richard Dunwoody
Not only is the Mongol Derby an industrial dose of adventure, it’s also about Saving the World. We ask every rider to make their best efforts to raise a minimum of £500 for the official charity Steppe and Hoof, a Mongolia-based non-profit that supports herders and their animals on the steppe. Anything above this can be raised for any other registered charity of your choice. Over the years riders have raised staggering amounts of cash for a huge range of amazing causes.
To Learn more about the Mongol Debry visit The Equestrianists
