Mongolian Naadam - Horse race (age of soyolon)

Mongolian horse race is rather dissimilar to the horse racing of other countries. There are several significant horse races throughout the year in Mongolia, including the Naadam Festival race, Tasagaan Sar Lunar New Year race, the spring horse race and the Ikh Hurd race.
In terms of importance, the Ikh Hurd race is the biggest. The best of the best horses from every corner of Mongolia compete in this race for high standing. The best horses, best horse trainers and best riders of Ikh Hurd’s first 5 places earn scores doubling the scores awarded during the State Naadam Festival. In terms of popularity, Naadam is the most popular national holiday and traditional sporting event. All cities, towns and villages organize their Naadams and organize the horse races in their open horse racing field outside of the cities and towns. The racing distance differs depending on the ages of the horse. There are six racing categories in the Naadam festival according to the age of the horses.
Mongolian race horses are ridden by 7 to 13 year old girls and boys. The racing routes are straight requiring less navigation and more speed and endurance during the race. However, the long distance, weather and road conditions and other challenges require careful consideration for the jockeys’ safety. The race horses were ridden without saddles and child riders do not wear heavy clothing to be as light as possible. However, there is a new regulation; the jokey must be protected by accident insurance, protective gear such as helmets, vests, knee and elbow pads, and protective stirrups. Traditionally, children rode without saddles. But a new rule requires racing saddles for increased safety.
Horses competing in the races are trained for at least a month prior to the start of a festival. The horse races are held outside of Ulaanbaatar in the open fields. While waiting for horse race, the racing fields are bustling with interesting activity for travelers to enjoy, such as folk and horse shows, unique holiday meals, craft sales and others.

[@Mongolian.Script]

Nice 👍