Naadam

We arrived just hours after the opening ceremonies for Naadam, the national festival.  We quickly dropped off our stuff at our new apartment and went to see the fun.

Wrestling

Wrestler in the middle of the picture with a blue bikini look.  Big screens set up around town allowed everyone to stay updated on the wrestling.  The winner becomes one of Mongolia's biggest celebrities.  After winning they strut while flapping their arms like wings.

 

Archery

Judges raised their hands with an elaborate up and down swinging motion as the arrow hits the targets.   

Amber and Drake hidden amongst the onlookers.

Shagai

Finger flicking one bone to knock down down a row of bones.  Think marbles and bowling.

Our second day was spent watching,

Horse races.

One year old race, meaning the horses are one year old, the children riding are 7-9.  All horses are checked to make sure they really are Mongolian horses, if not they are booted from the race.  Even with half the horses disqualified there was a multitude of equestrians.

Our winners.  The officials ride next to the horses as they cross the finish line.  Nose to nose and neck to neck, we still don't know who won.

Drake had the most fun playing in the dirt.

Ever watchful for passing horses and riders who went where ever they fancied.

Score!  We saw the lucky white camel and couldn't leave without Duncan and Grahm getting a picture.

Fair

Photo bomb!  Here I was trying to take a picture of the horse and all the boys ran into the frame. ;)