NAADAM

Naadam is an age old celebration of the test of courage, strength, dexterity, and marksmanship of the nomads.

The largest celebration is held in Ulaanbaatar starting from on July 11 for 3 days. Mongolian wrestling contests at Naadam,
involving over 500 contestants, are an exciting spectacle. As there are no weight classes and 16 contests are held simultaneously, the competition progresses quickly. Before the contest wrestlers perform eagle dances to limber up and display their fine physiques. Each wrestler has a second who acts as a coach and herald to announce his charge's heroic deeds.

Archery contest has inherited a tradition dating from the time of Chinggis Khaan when they were intended to sharpen military skills. Men fire 40 arrows made from willow branches and griffin vulture feathers from a distance of 75 meters and woman deliver 20 arrows from 60 meters at a target consisting of 360 leather rings fitted to a wall. In accordance with ancient custom, several men stand on either side of the target singing a folk song (uuhai) to clear the contestants and then use hand signals to indicate the results.

Horseracing is the favorite sport of the herdsmen who bring their best horses from great distances. Races, which take place on the steppe over distance from 15 to 30 km, are a test of endurance for the horses and riders, boys and girls, some as young as six years old. The races are organized according to the age of the horses. Mare's milk is poured over the heads of the winning horses that are also honored with songs.