LISTEN TO THE Event shows
Azarga
Stallion horse racing
Azarga
Stallion horse racing
Races are organized according to age and sex of the horses: geldings, for example, are divided into five age categories, from 2 to 6 and older.
Each Naadam includes at least one race of stallions (AZARGA), and at least three races for geldings. In Ulan Bator, a race for pacing horses is also planned.
The distance traveled by the race is also dependent on the age of horses, 15 km for 2 years, 30 km for horses over 6 years.
The start of the races is very specific: all the horses come together behind a standard-bearer, cross the finish line and follow the official rider until the starting line.
Arrived at the starting line, a whistle gives the signal to start the race, riders turn around and gallop toward the finish line as fast as possible.
The first five horses are rewarded: people sing their praises, and they are sprayed with fermented mare's milk (airag) on the rump, neck and cheek.
Airag Khokuur
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The "Airag Khokuur" Mare's Milk Festival is a significant event held during Mongolia's Naadam Festival, showcasing traditional customs and community spirit.
This festival takes place at Khui Doloon Khudag, a vast open space approximately 30 km west of Ulaanbaatar, which also serves as the venue for the Naadam horse races.
LISTEN TO THE Event Speakers
Enkhbold.M
Former Speaker Enkhbold.M
Enkhbold.M
Former Speaker Enkhbold.M
Greeting from the President of the Mongolian Horse Sports and Jockeys Association
Dear jockeys, enthusiasts of horse sports, and all those who cherish and carry forward the rich history, culture, and traditions of Mongolia!
On behalf of the Mongolian Horse Sports and Jockeys Association, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication, perseverance, and hard work that contribute to the development of horse sports, and wish you all the best in the new year.
The history of Mongolian jockeys spans centuries, and it is a history full of energy and resilience, written on the pages of time. As such, it is our duty to preserve and continue this legacy, not only for our culture but also to share it with the world and further advance the global recognition of horse sports. The melodies and traditions of Mongolian horse sports are not only part of our culture, but also contribute to the cultural development worldwide.
I would also like to emphasize that the collective efforts of all jockeys and sports participants demonstrate not only unity and moral integrity but also show the world the strength of Mongolian horsemanship.
Together, we will revive the traditions of Mongolian horse sports, ensure their continued global recognition, and successfully implement new opportunities as they arise.
We are working every day to organize various activities, races, cultural events, and internationally renowned Mongolian horse racing events that we can all be proud of.
I wish that you continue to write this remarkable history, with your horses leading the way, gaining recognition globally, and becoming a proud part of the legacy of Mongolian jockeys.
With gratitude, respect, and pride,
President of the Mongolian Horse Sports and Jockeys Association