Jenn Laidlaw, a horse farm manager from central Kentucky originally from Fieldbrook, California, is preparing to compete in the Mongol Derby next month—the world’s longest horse race covering over 600 miles across Mongolia in 10 days or less. Despite not being an experienced rider and primarily working on the managerial side of horse breeding, Laidlaw is drawn to the race’s grueling challenge and the adventure it promises. The Mongol Derby retraces a historic Pony Express route and requires riders to switch horses every 20 miles, riding hardy Mongolian horses known for their endurance and toughness. Laidlaw sees this race as a personal test and a way to seek adventure after a difficult year marked by personal losses.

Though she has limited riding experience and has faced some injuries during training, Laidlaw is confident in her mental toughness, honed through years of managing life-or-death situations on the farm. She hopes her participation will inspire others, especially young horse enthusiasts from her hometown, to pursue their dreams regardless of their background. For Laidlaw, the race is not just about competition but about proving to herself that she can overcome challenges and embrace new experiences.