Alexandra van Heeren
Alisa Vermay
Anna Bradbury
Hilary Ponti
Madonna Harris
Sophie de Selliers The greatest equine adventure in the world
Last summer the Mongol Derby thundered into the pages of equine history. Now the world's longest and toughest horse race is back, longer and tougher than ever.
This summer on the 7th of August a new band of courageous riders will mount their steeds deep in the Mongolian steppe to face a gruelling 1000 km race across the empty wilderness.
The Mongol Derby is based on Chinngis Khaan's legendary postal system which could relay messages thousands of miles in a matter of days. Like the mighty Khaan's system the Mongol Derby relies on a network of horse stations (Morin Urtuu in Mongolian) stretching mile after mile across the Mongolian steppe. Find out more about Urtuus on the course page. With ten days to cover the 1000km course this is no ordinary horse race, it's not a test of the horse's speed but the rider's skill and endurance - this is the mother of all equine adventures. The HorsesMongolian horses are steeped in tradition and myth and a central part of Mongolian culture, outnumbering people there seven to one. These hardy animals are tougher than a pair of steel boots and live out on the steppe all year round. Although smaller than other breeds, Mongolian horses are more than capable of carrying our riders. We're working with some of Mongolia's top horse breeders and a network of Horse Racing Associations to gather together a fine batch of healthy horses from across the country. Find out more about the mighty Mongolian horse on our horses page.With over 1000 horses animal welfare is of paramount importance. All the Mongol Derby horses will be carefully selected and checked by vets before even taking part. During the event the horses will be treated to an extensive vet support system to respond quickly to any problems and keep them all healthy. To find out more about this have a read of the vet logistics page. To ensure horse welfare is at the top of our brave riders' agendas, and to keep the competition fair, they all have to follow our rules. These detail how riders have to present their horses to our vets as well as all the circumstances under which time penalties and disqualifications will be issued. Saving a bit of the worldLike all our adventures the Mongol Derby aims to save a little bit of the world. We believe all our adventures should give back to the communities that make the adventure what it is. Each rider raises a minimum of £1000 for our excellent official charity. Have a gander at the charity pages for more details.Riding the Mongol DerbyIf you want to tackle the 2010 beast you'll have to pass our application process and provide references so we can ensure you have a high enough standard of riding experience. We also want to know you are prepared for what lies in store so we like to know you have a bit of adventure in your blood. To find our more and actually put your name into the fray go to the sign up page.
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