Dede Anders, a Wyoming native, is gearing up to compete in the Mongol Derby, the world’s longest and toughest endurance horse race. Originally selected to run in the 2025 competition, Anders was called up to the 2024 race with only a little over a month to prepare. The Mongol Derby, known for its grueling demands, follows the ancient horse messenger system created by Ghengis Khan, covering 620 miles of the rugged Mongolian steppe. Competitors ride semi-wild Mongolian horses, swapping mounts every 25 miles at check-in stations.
Anders, with a background in horsemanship and a career in medicine, decided to throw her hat in the ring after discovering the derby during a slow shift at work. Despite not having prior experience in endurance racing, Anders is determined to compete in-full as a Competitor, aiming to finish the race and satisfy her competitive spirit. Wyoming has a history of successful riders in the Mongol Derby, with individuals like Robert Long and Deirdre Griffith making historic runs.
Growing up on a ranch in Greybull, Anders has always been involved in horsemanship, cowboying, and rodeoing. Her upbringing, which she describes as „semi-feral,“ has prepared her for the challenges of riding semi-feral horses in the derby. With her professional experiences and extensive horsemanship skills, Anders believes she has what it takes to tackle the Mongol Derby.
Despite the shortened prep time due to being bumped up to the 2024 competition, Anders is focused on final travel preparations and bracing herself for the journey ahead. She will be flying to Mongolia, joining her fellow riders for training days before the race’s start on August 7. Wyomingites can track Anders‘ progress through the derby’s website and make charitable contributions to Wyo Hoofbeats, a Cody-based organization that offers equine-assisted therapies and learning programs.
As Anders embarks on this incredible journey, she carries with her the spirit of Wyoming – a place known for its remoteness, self-reliance, and grit. With her determination, skills, and competitive drive, Dede Anders is set to take on the challenge of the Mongol Derby and make her mark in this prestigious endurance race.
