Erdene-Ochir Uuganbayar has made Mongol Derby history becoming the first native Mongolian to win the race. He crossed the finish line on Day 8, well ahead of the competition, and flashing his trademark grin.
The 27 years old was born in a Mongolian herder family in Tuv Province and lives there with his wife and two children. They raise horses, cows, sheep and goats. He started riding horses at a very early age and used to race in the local Naadams. He competed in the Equestrianists ‘Herder Trials’ in 2021, with his best event being the horse bucking competition.
From perusing the Facebook page, it looks like the riders rode through some amazing landscapes but also endured horrific weather: cold, pelting rain that had riders pouring water out of their boots.
The race is still underway. I’ll report back after the last competitors cross the finish line.