We’re just a day away from the start of the 2023 Mongol Derby, kicking off August 2nd. 40+ riders from the USA, UK, Spain, Kenya, Sweden, Germany, Pakistan, Australia, Ireland, Philippines and Canada will race across Mongolia in the longest horse race in the world, measuring at 1,000km.
After my own trip to Mongolia in 2022, I’ve had countless dreams of the Land of the Blue Sky, and spend numerous waking hours planning my trip back. Having experienced some of the wildly unpredictable weather, horses, terrain, and natural challenges that these riders will face, I’m certain this race will be an exciting one to follow.
This year’s riders have been briefed, and have gone through the riders’ boot camp to go over navigation, horsemanship, and a preview of the course. Now all that’s left to do is put the riders’ horsemanship skills to the test as their faced with new obstacles, and are tested in their strength, determination, adaptability, and grit.
To no one’s surprise, there are multiple Eventers participating in the race – many of the skills required in this race are similar to those needed to boldly tackle a cross country course. Aisha Gross, Alice Roosevelt, Hannah Bicket, Olivia Gaweda, and Rebecca Hester make up the group of Eventers participating this year, and we’re looking forward to seeing them apply their Eventer mentality to the course!
I’ll be thoroughly stalking the socials for the race, which you can find on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Additionally, there’s a live tracking map where you can cheer the riders along as you follow their tracker dot.
Riders are sharing their last days of preparation, and the team behind the Derby is working hard to bring you along with them! Take a look at what’s been going into the prep work, as well as a little sneak peek into the base camp…
Good luck to all of the participants this year! Enjoy the experience!
