Josh Edwards is competing in the “MONGOL DERBY,” “one of the most grueling and prestigious equestrian endurance races in the world!” (over 621 miles in the Mongolian Mountains, riding at least 3 horses per day and at least 75 miles per day) The previous sentence, sent to me by Sarah J. Bohnenkamp, stirred my attention as it was followed by, “His story is of a celebrated rodeo professional taking on a worldrenowned endurance race, the personal and physical challenges involved, and the excitement leading up to the event.” “His is a story of a journey from the rodeo arena to the vast and challenging terrain of the Mongolian steppes (during unpredictable winter weather) and the passion, determination, and resilience it takes/ took.” It takes place across frigid mountain passes and on/over giant sand dunes, with horses changing every 35 kilometers. Race organizers, actual riders, and local culture believe in rider and horse safety and welfare, and rigorous “checks” are conducted throughout the race–veterinary checks, curfews, weight limits, and other guideline checks are designed for ultimate fairness and safety!
Why does this race take place? It has been run 14 times and seeks to continue the tradition of Genghis Khan’s “horse messenger system.” Josh competed this year against other trained riders from South Africa, Brazil, China, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, Australia, and the United States.
Mr. Edwards retired from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association during December of 2023 after 25 years as a Pickup Man and has recently been riding horses at least 15 miles per day, losing a reported 25 pounds, to prepare! Tisha Sims has also contributed to the above descriptions and added that “you can see Josh every morning riding down the road near his home in FORNEY–rain or shine!”
Let’s go back a few years. Josh graduated from Hill Junior College with an Associate Degree, was a competitor in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association, and re-located to Forney after college. He has been twice honored as a National Finals Rodeo pick-up man, elected by the top 15 professional rodeo athletes. He also serves as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.
After 20 years as a professional cowboy, he recently retired in early 2024 to help their sons achieve their own goals.
Mongol Derby 2024: August 4.....Pre-Race Training Day #1.....Survive the “weigh-in”.....Bus ride to the “steppe”.....become more familiar with their Mongolian steeds Pre-Race Training Day #2.....“ Boot Camp” begins..... Test-ride the mounts
Pre-Race Training day #3..... Meet the “medics”.....
note the “pests” of the race (marmots) Mongol Derby Day #1..... THE RACE IS ON!.....a Rollercoaster for the Ages.....Josh Edwards is one of the LEADERS!
Mongol Derby Day #2..... A Daylight Robbery Mongol Derby Day #3..... Frontrunners open a Gap!
Mongol Derby day #4..... A SOLO RIDER clinches the lead!
Mongol Derby Day # 8.....“ ALL HAIL THE QUEEN”–The exceptional MISSY MORGAN has crossed the finish line in superb form!-----and..... SAM JONES crossed the line an hour or so later for 2nd after a superb and grueling ride to try to catch Morgan.
Mongol Derby Day #9..... 26 more incredible riders cross the line to finish the DERBY! JOSH EDWARDS>>>>>JOSH DALES>>>>>GRACE NEUHAUS share a JOINT THIRD PLACE with arms raised together in solidarity.
Final Results: JOSH EDWARDS was the only non-Australian to cross the finish line in the “top five.” In the 9 days/1,000 kilometers race, HE took 3rd Place in the endurance race across the Mongolian Steppe.
**Themer**I have heard that Josh and Kristi are “abroad” on a well-deserved vacation. I hope I was able to “get this story correct,” and I wish you both well as you return to the BRISCOE soil in Forney!
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