The Mongol Horse.
An animal tough as nails and willing to negotiate a passenger but not without good reason. My first ride on a Mongolian horse was a treat. The little bugger flew, I never felt the ground below us. I could see how uneven and rolling the terrain was, but his feet were a flurry of motions buffering me from any of the bumps along the way- it was brilliant. He knew exactly where his feet were and I just needed to stay out of his way. This was a lesson for the derby, and one that kept me safely aboard most all the beasts throughout the race.
In Mongolia, the horse is a sacred being. They are honored, respected and a life source to the people. Mares aren’t ridden, and instead produce milk and foals. Their milk is fermented and made into a nutritious and slightly boozy drink called airag. It’s sour and tastes a bit like goat and grass. A bowl was offered wherever I went.
Geldings and stallions are handled for utility and racing, and aren’t gentled for the sake of their own survival.
Mongolian winters are extreme and inhospitable. The animals forage, surviving due to their grit and wit. Taking the wild out of the horses would ultimately kill them. Herds of horses roam free and untethered. When they are needed, they are lassoed by herders. Their fire and protest is a sight to behold. Once saddled and mounted and the initial protest is over, they fly carrying their rider spectacularly.
Geldings have their manes cut short, while stallions carry theirs long. A horse with a blue silk tied around it’s throatlatch, holds success as a retired and honored mount.
A few lessons:
Never approach the horse from the right.
Keep a hand on the line and stay close to their head, they spin and kick quickly.
Don’t be surprised if the horse spooks at your attempts to offer affection.
Talking to them works wonders. A song will slow their minds.
If your camping out, hobble your horse and tie it to another. You may otherwise search for your mount for hours.
Never under any circumstance get off your horse between legs. You’ll likely have them spook at you, and pull away or drag you.
Be prepared to bolt
Be brave
Be polite
Expect the ride of your life
Accept the unexpected
