Mongol Derby 2016 up and running

The 2016 Mongol Derby got underway earlier today, and a Qatar Racing team has completed the first day without apparent mishap.

Qatar Racing's David Redvers, Kevin Darley and Peter Molony, with support from Chips Broughton and Gareth Jones, have been dubbed 'The Firm' by the organisers (no explanation given), and Darley's riding skills have been noted (as you would expect of a former champion jockey).

Twenty-seven stations have to be negotiated over the next seven to ten days, and it seems the leaders have reached station three. Qatar Racing team's sleeping arrangements show initiative, for the organisers have gathered a report that they were spotted "sleeping in a burned out bus wreck. Horses are in a winter shelter".

Qatar Racing is raising money for injured jockeys in Britain and Ireland - please donate to support the cause by clicking on their 'Just Giving' page at the following linkhttps://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/QatarRacing. You can do so at any time during the race, and the page will remain open after it is completed.

Photo below of the 2016 Mongol Derby race start: Richard Dunwoody