Essentials
Length: 7 days
Distance: 872km (120, 126, 148, 175, 170, 47TT, 86)
Elevation: 13,748m (2900, 2240, 2000, 2540, 1730, 850, 1488)
Categories: Elite (Khan), Sportsman (18-32), Masters1 (33-42), Masters2 (43-49), Senior (50+), Female, Tandem, Team of 3
Distance: 872km (120, 126, 148, 175, 170, 47TT, 86)
Elevation: 13,748m (2900, 2240, 2000, 2540, 1730, 850, 1488)
Categories: Elite (Khan), Sportsman (18-32), Masters1 (33-42), Masters2 (43-49), Senior (50+), Female, Tandem, Team of 3
Organisation - 6/10
Race Director: Willy Mulonia
Email: info@mongoliabikechallenge.com
Website: http://www.mongoliabikechallenge.com/en/
Organizing a stage race of this size in Mongolia is not an easy task and Willy Mulonia has achieved wonders in difficult circumstances. The route for the MBC is extremely well-planned and thoroughly researched and an excellent team was assembled for the 2014 edition. Several riders did take wrong turns but all riders had access to downloadable GPS maps before the event. On the whole, the food was excellent, but on a couple of days the servings were paltry. There was no little or no phone and internet access (this is Mongolia after all), but there was no reason why results were not displayed and were only published on the last two stages. Facilities are basic and be prepared for hole-in-the-ground toilets and freezing cold showers.
Email: info@mongoliabikechallenge.com
Website: http://www.mongoliabikechallenge.com/en/
Organizing a stage race of this size in Mongolia is not an easy task and Willy Mulonia has achieved wonders in difficult circumstances. The route for the MBC is extremely well-planned and thoroughly researched and an excellent team was assembled for the 2014 edition. Several riders did take wrong turns but all riders had access to downloadable GPS maps before the event. On the whole, the food was excellent, but on a couple of days the servings were paltry. There was no little or no phone and internet access (this is Mongolia after all), but there was no reason why results were not displayed and were only published on the last two stages. Facilities are basic and be prepared for hole-in-the-ground toilets and freezing cold showers.
Accessibility - 6
Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, is not the easiest place to travel to, and flights are limited. Lost luggage, plane cancellations and delays are not uncommon. Riders arrive at Ulaanbaatar two days before the race for the official presentation. The following day, riders are transferred to the Chinggis Khan Complex (1.5 hours), ready to start the race the next day.
Cost - 6
Event: 1390-1790 Euros - A$2000-A$2600 (dependent on time of entry)
Country: Extremely cheap. The currency is the Togrog although American Dollars are accepted.
Country: Extremely cheap. The currency is the Togrog although American Dollars are accepted.
Climate - 7
In September, temperatures range from -5 degrees at night to 22 degrees, with around 12 hours of daylight and a high possibility of light rain, although thunderstorms, moderate rain and moderate snow are possible. The 2014 edition, enjoyed unseasonably warm weather and only a mere sprinkling of rain, although morning and night temperatures were very cold.
Difficulty - 9
Daily Distances range from 86km-175km with climbing between 1488m-2900m and so the race is difficult physically. The stages are not particularly technical although there are some tough climbs and very fast descents. Day 4 (Marathon Queen Stage) is the toughest at 175 km and is followed by a slightly easier day of 170 km.
Riders - 9
Number: 70
Level: The race site states that this race is for professional and high level amateurs although there were a small number who were riding purely to survive.
Level: The race site states that this race is for professional and high level amateurs although there were a small number who were riding purely to survive.
Uniqueness - 10
An experience that would be hard to duplicate anywhere else in the world. You ride on the lonely steppes (grassy plains) of Mongolia across extreme deserts, mountain passes, unspoiled rivers, with scenes of rare beauty. Mongolia is the least populated country in the world and represents a step back in time where people still live a simple, nomadic life.
Camaraderie - 10
Riders share a lot of time together, both on the bike and after, while sharing in Gers (fur-lined tents), cabins and 8-man tents. Riders suffer together, while experiencing the highs and lows of such an arduous race. There is a great camaraderie between all riders, regardless of level or nationality.
Overall - 9
An incredible experience, which is unlike any other stage race considering the remote locations raced in. It is physically tough, with long distances covered, particularly with back-to-back 170 / 175 km days on day 4 and 5. On the other hand, it is not particularly technical, although it does involve some tough climbs, fast descents and a fair number of river and water crossings, particularly on Day 2 and 3. This is a race that should be done at least once in your life!
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