So here we go. The last post before I start this epic adventure across the Mongolian Steppe and head into 2 weeks of being off the grid.
Tomorrow morning we have our introductory briefing and rider weigh before heading out on the 6 hour drive to the start camp.
Tomorrow evening’s welcome party will consist of a Mongolian banquet and traditional music and dance. And no doubt some airag (that’s a traditional drink of fermented mares milk…) Monday and Tuesday we will have 2 days pre-race training meeting the horses and being shown how to handle them, as well as navigation, medical training etc. Oh and working out how to get that 5kg of kit securely fitted to our saddles.
Wednesday morning, race starts. 10 days to cross 1000km on 29 different semi-wild ponies…
So the Mongolian horse (and they are officially horses even though most are 13hh or under), friend or nemesis. From what I have seen so far and the couple of days riding I have done this week I’m going with friend but I’ll give the final answers to that question when I’m back!
And of course there’s us still time to help me reach my fundraising goals… 100% of all donations goes to charity
https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/gemmaractliffe
https://www.coolearth.org/campaigns/22215/journey-to-the-derby/