Adventure awaits at the Mongolia Bike Challenge

Mongolia is litmus test for those of us who consider ourselves travellers. Its rich history means its name is familiar, yet its geographic location – bordered to the north by Russia and to the south by China – has managed to shroud the world’s 19th largest country with an aura of mystery.

Funny place then, for a mountain bike race. But a bike race it does possess in the form of the Mongolia Bike Challenge. This year the event will celebrate its sixth edition, and in its own small way the race has unlocked some of the mystery around Mongolia to a lucky few.

The Mongolia Bike Challenge debuted in 2010. The first edition of the race covered a jaw-dropping 1,400 kilometres over 10 stages, including tracts of the legendary Gobi desert. As the years have progressed, the race has migrated in it’s location and these days covers a still-challenging 850km over 7-stages.

The race begins under the watchful eye of Mongol Emperor Chinggis Khaan. Photo: Mike Blewitt

This year’s race route will cover 856km, including a 47km time trial on the penultimate day of the event. The remaining kilometres are spread across expanses of plains and rocky climbs. For most, the event’s Queen stage, a 175km journey on stage 4, will be an achievement in-and-of itself, particularly considering the following day’s stage covers 170km.

From a racer’s standpoint, the event has been dominated by two men. Italian Marzio Deho claimed victory in the first two editions of the race, while Canadian Cory Wallace has left with 3 of the pink jerseys awarded to the overall winner. Even without taking a look at the course, these two names alone say a lot about the nature of the event. Like these established Hardmen of the endurance mountain biking scene, the Mongolia Bike Challenge attracts a certain type of individual; the adventurer.

Towards the beginning of a stage at the Mongolia Bike Challenge

As countries go, Mongolia is remote inside and out. The country covers an area of 1.5 million square kilometres (slightly larger than the Northern Territory) with its 3 million inhabitants creating population density greater only than a handful of island states and Nordic territories. Competitors in the Mongolia Bike Challenge face hours racing across literal plains, accompanied only by 120-odd riders and a selection of unique fauna.

Long stages mean riders end up spread out across the course.

Time gaps between riders are often large, but that doesn’t mean the event is bereft of close battles. In fact, defending champion Wallace’s 2014 victory saw him finish a meagre 2 mins and 46 seconds ahead of Italian Nicholas Pettinà.

The favourites in the Khan category

Cory Wallace’s regular trips to Mongolia have taken on extra significance with the affable Canadian often extending his trip to train in the tough-but-peaceful terrain. A shoulder injury sustained at the Titan Race in Morocco in early May raised some concern that his participation might be compromised, but some time off the bike should see him ready to defend his wins in the past three editions.

Only the toughest finish the Mongolia Bike Challenge

Those hoping to break Wallace’s streak as Khan (the moniker given to Elite category) include Japan’s Yuki Ikeda and Australian Steve Rankine. The race always benefits from a strong European contingent, with a number of Italians expected to line up, with Spain’s Miguel Silvestre Iniesta another challenger for the title.

Australia already has a fine record in the race, with Melinda Jackson and Libby Adamson taking victory in the women’s category in 2011 and 2012, respectively. The UK’s Catherine Williamson won in 2013, but with no women finishing in 2014 opportunity beckons for challengers this year.

Many friendships are forged on the trails of Mongolia.

Chasing the beautiful challenge

Browsing through blogs complied by competitors the Mongolia Bike Challenge clearly has a significant impact upon each competitor, not just as cyclists but as comparatively rare visitors to the East Asian steppe. The one thing that quickly becomes clear is that this race captivates all who take part in it. The common thread is this: It’s a beautiful challenge.

Even in the middle of Mongolia, the same stage racing challenges apply. Photo: Mike Blewit

There’s a theory that the power of bike riding lies in the sense of freedom it affords us. Once again, the Mongolia Bike Challenge looks set to serve up an opportunity to test physical limits while rejoicing in that freedom. After all, familiarity comes on all too quick.

Race vehicles add a dose of retro to the Challenge. Photo: Mike Blewitt

Get yourself there

The Mongolia Bike Challenge has a special offer for AMB readers. The first 10 riders to signup using the coupon code ‘AMB_MBC_15’ will save €200 off their entry fee. Places are limited so get in quick to secure your spot!

Mongolia Bike Challenge website.