The Mongol Derby is described as the world’s longest and toughest horse race, covering 1,000 kilometres (+620 miles) over 10 days across the Mongolian Steppe. This annual event has taken place since 2009.
It is inspired by the postal transmission system set up Genghis Khan, whose tough messengers were able to gallop from Kharkhorin to the Caspian sea in a number of days using a massive network of horse stations.
Riders taking part in the Mongol Derby change horses every 35km and horse welfare is paramount. There are strict rules on the height and weight of riders and their kit. The tough Mongolian horses are typically 12-14hh, older than five, and have been carefully selected and trained to take part.
Riders have to carry everything they need to survive during the race with them within the weight limit so this is a test of endurance and survival in the wilderness of the steppe, as well as of horsemanship.
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