Fast Facts:
July 23- Aug 1, 2022 - Somewhere in Mongolia
7-10 days
1000 km / 621 miles
Competitors ride all semi-feral Mongol horses sourced from local families by the Adventurists
Riders change horses every 25 miles at a horse station (urtuu) aiming for 3-4 horses per day.
Distance between each urtuu is navigated by GPS - there is no marked trail.
Horses have to pass a rigorous vet check after arriving at each urtuu to ensure wellness. Time penalties are leveled against competitors who’s horses don’t pass or come in lame.
Nights are spent either at horse stations, with Mongol families that have no affiliation to the race, or camping.
Competitors get 11 pounds of gear (excluding clothes worn at the start line, and water).
There was a documentary made about this race title All the Wild Horses. It’s a great way to see more in-depth how the race goes!
Dream
Why do this?
Because it’s something I’ve felt like I needed to do for years now. It’s just that simple.
I want to set the example for my girls that no dream is too big, and they can accomplish anything to which they set their minds - no matter their stage in life.
*There are plenty of factors that supported the decision, but let’s talk about those in person.
Train
Mental training. Physical training. GPS training. Miles. Miles. Miles in the saddle.
Training looks different for each competitor. I’m incredibly blessed to live where I do with the resources I have. I’ll train with Gravity Works on structural integration, functional strength training, and butt-kicking workouts this winter. All this to keep in shape while not riding much in the snow, and prepare to get after it as soon as the snow melts in 2021.
GPS navigation is also a major component. I’ve got to figure out how to navigate over unfamiliar terrain, with a GPS, at a gallop.
I also have a 50mi endurance race, in my sights as a part of this preparation.
Execute
All the preparation in the world only gives me control over about 20% of what happens to me on the steppe. Horses, weather, and luck will be the major factors over which I have no influence. I’ll ask each of you to pray, meditate, or practice all the good vibes my way!
Travel to Mongolia occurs August 2021. I’ll stay in Ulaan Bataar for a few days, then have 2 days of horseback training at start camp. Start day is on August 10th!
You can track me online as the race progresses via the Adventurists site with real time updates on the race, or on Adventurists Twitter & Instagram accounts! I’ll also have someone take over my @deirdredoesthederby IG account to give updates along the way.
