Two riders, Charles van Wyck, 28, of South Africa, and Shiravsamboo Galbadrakh, 28, of Mongolia are streaking ahead of the field and are on course to complete the near 1000 kilometre course by Saturday. The rest of the field are spread in their wake, with three riders, David Coddington, Jock Munro and Carina Oliver taking the adventure at a leisurely pace at the rear of the field.
There is a two-week limit for the Derby but the riders are set to complete the course much faster than anticipated despite the long hours in the saddle, harsh elements and rough terrain. Unfortunately, two riders capitulated on the second day and had to retire from proceedings. Tolo Mestres of Spain took a fall and was rushed to UB by Prometheus medical for a back X ray. Although not seriously injured, he is sadly unable to carry on, much to his dismay. Martin Asplund of Sweden also had to retire on the second day after a fall. He is also fine, and is now ahead of the riders, awaiting their arrival, having found his way to the finish line without the help of a horse!
The six mobile veterinary teams, made up of teams of Mongolian, British, New Zealand and South African vets, have been doing a sterling job checking every single horse in and out of each Morin Urtuu (horse station). They have been extremely impressed with the fitness of the horses and only one out of the 350 horses used so far has come in with a heart rate exceeding the permitted 64. They have also been kept busy treating an array of local goats, cattle and horses.
Last night 10 of the riders met at Urtuu 11, the half way point, for an impromptu half way party, with much singing of Mongolian folk songs and merriment ensuing. Dave Murray of New Zealand admitted to feeling 'depressed' at the thought of the looming finish, so much was he enjoying it.
This was soon after he had performed the Haka, in his tights, to the assembled crowd. Katy Willings and Will Kemble-Clarkson also entertained everyone with rousing songs. No doubt more celebrations shall follow at the finish line.
The Mongol Derby is taking place across the wild open steppe of Mongolia – the perfect location for this incredible adventure, but also rather tricky for more regular updates from the field. As soon as we have more from the riders we will post another update.