On Thursday, May 4, 2023, Montgomery Creek Ranch (MCR) hosted equestrian, trainer, and all-around adventurer, Lena Haug at the Sebastiani Theatre in downtown Sonoma, California.
Lena has been a part of the MCR team since we were founded in 2012, gentling, training, and helping us ready our mustangs for their forever homes during her visits. Most recently, she worked with Chance, Spice, Owen (all who have since been adopted), and Moxie, who is available for adoption now.
Lena shared with the audience her experience training for (she did part of her training at MCR!) and participating in the Mongol Derby – the world’s longest and toughest horse race.
According to the Derby’s website, “You square up to 1000 km (621 miles) of Mongolian steppe on semi-wild horses, changing steeds every 40km (25 miles). You navigate and survive on your own wits and skill, living among the herders. It’s you and your horse vs. the wild.”
The two-hour presentation was attended by a sold-out audience and included stories such as:
Being kicked in the face by one of the horses. After medics deemed her OK to continue, the horse took off unable to be controlled. Lena couldn't even get her GPS out, she had to have riders yell out directions as she held on.
Losing nearly 20 pounds in 9 days.
Being chased by packs of Mongolian Bankhar sheepherding dogs who would attempt to attack riders protecting their herds.
It was a wonderful night, we all laughed and cried and were mesmerized by Lena’s stories. Proceeds from the event went to MCR’s work rescuing and training mustangs.
