Stunning documentary about the Mongolian Derby, the world’s most challenging horse race that follows the 1000 km course of Ghengis Khan’s messenger-rider route. The race takes days to complete with fresh Mongolian horses every morning. As we cross steppe, desert and mountain with the horses and riders, we learn how the race is organised and what it brings to local communities. We find out how seriously horse welfare is taken. We meet the disparate competitors: the loners, the team players and those that have other priorities as they complete the marathon.

A rider since childhood, Ivo Marloh passed the rigorous entry requirements for the competition, paid the $13,000 fee and took part in both 2013 and 2014. His initial video project expanded into a feature-length documentary, shot as both participant and observer. Different personalities and motivations emerge, with some competitors almost exclusively goal-based, others more interested in the experience, but all united by the unique challenge.

A hit film that came out of nowhere and won over audiences and awards juries around the globe. Totally engaging, before long you’ll be rooting for your favourite jockey.

‘Hills, hooves and unhinged competitors, Ivo Marloh’s documentary about the Mongol Derby captures the beauty and bedlam [of the] cross-country race.’ Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian