Dede Anders, a 49-year-old extreme distance jockey from Wyoming, faced an unexpected setback just before competing in one of the world’s most grueling horse races.

She was all set for the nine-day-long Mongol Derby, a daunting 620-mile journey across the Mongolian Steppe, when illness struck her just days before the event.

Anders began to feel unwell on Monday and quickly realized she wouldn’t be able to handle the physical demands of the race. When she reached out to the event’s medical staff, she felt her concerns were dismissed.

According to Anders, she was told to “ride it out,” a response she found inadequate for her serious symptoms.

Despite her protests about not being well enough to ride, the organizers eventually arranged for her to return to Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolian capital. However, they did not provide a hotel room or book a flight back to the United States, leaving Anders to manage her own return journey.

Anders had been eagerly anticipating the Mongol Derby, drawn by a lifelong passion for horses. Growing up on a ranch in Greybull, she had a history of riding and competing, including barrel racing and team roping.

The Mongol Derby, known for its extreme difficulty, seemed like a perfect challenge for her.

She had initially faced a long wait after applying for the race, but when a spot opened up, she seized the opportunity. Anders even planned to use the race to raise funds for Wyo Hoofbeats Equine Assisted Learning, a nonprofit supporting those in need.

Struggles with Health and Logistics

Upon arriving in Ulaanbaatar and traveling to the race’s start point, Anders fell ill.

Describing her symptoms as gastrointestinal distress, she was examined by two medics who provided minimal assistance.

Anders, who has a medical background as a former US Army medic with a doctorate in emergency medicine, was disappointed with the lack of thorough medical evaluation and support.

When she communicated her health concerns to Katherine, the race director, she was eventually sent back to Ulaanbaatar but faced further issues. She was left to book her own accommodation and arrange her travel back to the US, all while battling her illness.

A Frustrating Experience

Reflecting on her experience, Anders felt let down by the organization’s handling of her situation. She described the ordeal as disorganized and stressful, particularly the lack of immediate assistance and support during her sickness.

Anders is now hoping to be reimbursed for her travel and entry costs, which totaled around $30,000, including a nearly $17,000 entry fee.

As she awaits her return flight, Anders remains frustrated and disappointed, having been left with a less than ideal memory of what was supposed to be a highlight of her equestrian career.

TDPel Media

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