Mongolia News Summary for July 13, 2025
The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of MongolBeat or its members.
Today's Stories
Politics
Diplomacy
- The President of Mongolia and the Emperor of Japan Watched the Race of Yearling Horses
- S. Chuluun: The Mongolian Horse Has Been a Major Symbol of Diplomatic Policy
Infrastructure
Society
- His Majesty Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan Visit the National Archery Field and Knucklebone Shooting Tent
- Today's Program for the National Great Festival of Naadam
- Today's Program for the National Grand Festival Announcement
- Emergency Services Working 24/7 at High Alert
- More than 1,050 police officers are working at the Central Stadium
- 3,700 Police Officers On Duty During the Naadam Festival
- Warning: Attention to Residents in Govi-Altai Province
- Parents Urged to Attach Protective Bracelets to Prevent Children from Getting Lost During Naadam
- Tourists: The Attitude of Mongolians Towards Their National Festival is Interesting
- 965 Police Officers Deployed at Khui Doloon Khudag
- Citizen: Thanks to the police for allowing us to watch the Soyolon race without closing the roads
- General Police Department: Fatal Incidents Due to Alcohol During the Holidays
- PHOTO: Spectators Waiting for the Yearling Horse Race
- PHOTO: From the National Festival's Ceremonial Fireworks Event...
- PHOTO: Festival visitors covered in dust at Khui Mandal during the Soyolon horse race
- REVIEW: Mongolia's Great Celebration Naadam-2025 with a New National Lion and Distinguished Guests
Environment
- Noise Levels Are Measured but Control and Accountability Are Lacking
- Forest Fire in Yeruu Soum, Selenge Province Has Been Fully Extinguished
- The fire in Yeruu soum of Selenge aimag has been fully extinguished
Health
- The Emperor and Empress of Japan Visit the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital
- Family Clinics Operating in the Capital City During the Festival Days
- Medical Services Provided to Officers Working at the Fire Site
- LIST: Family Health Centers Operating During the Naadam Holiday
Sports
- Should Mongolian National Wrestling Become a Professional Sport?
- Silk Road Cyclists Have Arrived in Mongolia
- The Winning Chestnut Colt is Indeed a Four-Year-Old Soyolon Horse
- SOEOLON: The Swift Khul Yearling of Zagjavin Mendsaikhan from Myangat Sum, Khovd Province Won First Place
- The Third Round of the National Wrestling Festival Continues
Politics
U.Khurelsukh: Where there is unity, there is strength
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh is giving a speech at the closing of the Naadam National Festival, commemorating the 2234th anniversary of the establishment of the state, the 819th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the National Liberation and Restoration of Independence, and the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution.
Diplomacy
The President of Mongolia and the Emperor of Japan Watched the Race of Yearling Horses
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, his wife Luvsandorjiin Bolortsetseg, His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan, Empress Masako, Speaker of the State Great Khural Dashzegviin Amarbayasgalan, and Prime Minister of Mongolia Gombojavyn Zandanshatar today attended and watched the race of yearling horses at Khui Doloon Khudag.
In the yearlings' race, the gray colt of outstanding national horse trainer Z. Mendsaikhan from Myangat soum, Khovd aimag, won the race and was awarded the silk bridle.
Afterwards, the President of Mongolia visited the "Buyantyn Khurd" stable at Khui Doloon Khudag. The bay stallion trained by the renowned national trainer Ch. Amarsanaa, and from Buutsagaan soum, Bayankhongor aimag, as well as the roan stallion trained by outstanding national trainer I. Zolboo, took first place in the stallions' race this year.
President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh conveyed his greetings of Naadam and best wishes to the horse trainers and assembled festival-goers.
Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form whether fully or partially, unless otherwise agreed, and must only use it by citing the source (ikon.mn).
S. Chuluun: The Mongolian Horse Has Been a Major Symbol of Diplomatic Policy
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The following are the comments of academician S. Chuluun, director of the “Chinggis Khan” National Museum, on the significance of celebrating World Horse Day and the historical role of the Mongolian horse:
— What role have horses played in not only Mongolian but also world history?
— Nomads in Mongolia have always highly valued horses. One of the main reasons for the magnificent achievements of the Mongol Empire was the horse. It is impossible to imagine nomads without horses, as at that time, horses were the fastest means of transportation in the world. In other words, Mongolian nomads and the Mongolian army possessed two things: the longest-range, most technologically advanced weapons of their era, and the fastest steeds.
Throughout their 2000-year history, Mongolians established a nomadic civilization distinct in the history of humanity, preserving its classical form thanks to the power of horses. Horse equipment and rituals related to horses from the time of the Xiongnu period have remained unchanged to this day. This is the most significant hallmark of Mongolians.
Horses were the primary strategic resource for Mongolians and nomads. During the era of the Mongol Empire, it was the horse that allowed them to cover distances of 3,000 to 5,000 kilometers—still a challenge for modern vehicles. Since 1990, horses have been presented as gifts during state visits to Mongolia. This is not by chance. Mongolians gift their best horses to their most honored guests to express friendly and respectful relations. For example, Prime Minister T. Namnansuren, during a visit to Russia in 1913, took eight white horses from here to present to Tsar Nicholas II in Crimea. Thus, the Mongolian horse has become a major symbol of diplomatic policy. Therefore, horses have played a significant role not only in practical terms but also in establishing world peace and protecting Mongolia's independence.
— This year, World Horse Day was celebrated for the first time. What significance do you see in this day?
— On this day, every country with horses takes pride in their own breed. The people of Jeju Island cherish their small horses, Turkmen their famous Akhal-Teke mounts, Arabs their unique breeds, and Russians their Tomsk horses. Similarly, in Mongolia, World Horse Day allows us to take pride in our equestrian heritage and better understand our own Mongolian horse.
There is no other horse in the world like the Mongolian horse, which has traversed the vastness of Eurasia from sunrise to sunset. No other breed—only the Mongolian steed—has crossed great deserts and the vast Eurasian steppe, climbed the Caucasus, crossed the Tien Shan, reached the Great Wall, passed through it, and arrived on the Korean Peninsula. Only the Mongolian horse has played such a huge historical role across such a vast place. We must be grateful to our ancestors for having preserved this breed to the present day.
No other people call their horse a "priceless jewel" like Mongolians. World Horse Day is an occasion for all mankind to remember the horse, and for Mongolians to appreciate and understand the significance of their native steed.
— What notable findings related to horses have been discovered in archaeology?
— The core findings from archaeological excavations are horses and horse equipment. Recently, in Myangad soum of Khovd province, the oldest classical saddle in Central Asian history was found. This is a horse artifact from the Rouran era, about 1,700 years ago. A perfectly preserved saddle set from the Khitan period was also found in a rock crevice in Khovd. Likewise, classic saddles from the Mongol Empire have been discovered. Last year, a solid silver saddle with a firebird motif, belonging to a Yuan dynasty noblewoman, was found in Sukhbaatar province. Our museum now has a saddle made from horse teeth and a golden saddle. Mongolian kings and aristocrats decorated and respected their horses even more than themselves.
Infrastructure
The road from Sonsgolon intersection to the "Power Plant 4" east intersection will be closed and renovated from tomorrow evening
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
As part of the extension and major repair works of the 5.9 km road section on Energy Street in Bayangol district's 20th khoroo, the first two kilometers of the road from the Sonsgolon intersection to the east intersection of "Power Plant 4" will be partially closed for expansion and renovation.
In connection with this, the road in question will be closed from 23:00 on July 13 until 06:00 on the 21st. Therefore, citizens and drivers are advised to choose temporary routes or other streets for their travel on these days, according to information provided by the City Governor's Office.
Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part by any means, and are allowed to use it only with explicit agreement and with a reference to the source (ikon.mn).
Society
His Majesty Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan Visit the National Archery Field and Knucklebone Shooting Tent
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn
At the invitation of Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, His Majesty Emperor Naruhito and Her Majesty Empress Masako of Japan are currently making a state visit to Mongolia. The Emperor and Empress participated as honored guests in the opening ceremony of the National Naadam Festival, which commemorates the 2,234th anniversary of the founding of Mongolian statehood, the 819th anniversary of the founding of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the restoration of national independence, and the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution.
After the opening ceremony, President U. Khurelsukh, his wife L. Bolortsetseg, Emperor Naruhito, and Empress Masako visited the national archery field and the knucklebone shooting tent. One of the 'Three Manly Games,' archery is divided into three categories: Khalkh, Buryat, and Uriankhai archery. Distances for archery shooting vary from 30 to 80 meters depending on the category. The stages of the competition used to be 'merge', 'shil', 'noyon', 'baatar', 'dald', and 'shuvtarga', with only renowned archers participating in the 'merge' stage. Only men compete in Uriankhai and Buryat archery, while both men and women participate in Khalkh archery.
Officially introduced as a Naadam event in 2001, knucklebone shooting was inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2014. Researchers note that knucklebone shooting originated in the 13th century, initially as a pastime among khans and nobles, later evolving into a popular contest of skill for the general male population. It is said that practicing knucklebone shooting develops qualities such as focus, good decision-making, patience, respect for one's team, and fosters friendship. The game is also considered a form of meditation and a competition of inner focus. Competitors shoot from a distance of 9 elbow-lengths, or approximately 4.72 meters, aiming for the 'khasaa' positioned at the center, using special tools called 'hashlaga' (rest) and 'sum' (shooting piece). The piece is flicked from the hashlaga to try and hit the target. According to the Mongolian Knucklebone Shooting Association's website, there are over 18,000 registered players across the country.
Today's Program for the National Great Festival of Naadam
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
We present to you today's program for the National Great Festival of Naadam, marking the 2234th anniversary of the founding of the state, the 819th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the restoration of national independence and sovereignty, and the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution.
Today, the "Soyolon" (five-year-old horses) race will take place from 07:00 to 11:00, and the foal race will be from 12:00 to 14:00. The third round of the national wrestling competition will begin at 09:00.
The closing ceremony is scheduled to be held from 21:00 to 22:00.
Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web sites) are strictly prohibited from using our information in full or in part in any form without permission. Usage is only allowed with prior agreement and by referencing the source (ikon.mn).
Today's Program for the National Grand Festival Announcement
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: news.mn
Today's program for the National Festival is presented to you. The event commemorates the 2234th anniversary of the founding of the first state, the 819th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the restoration of national independence and sovereignty, the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution, and the schedule of today's National Grand Festival.
Emergency Services Working 24/7 at High Alert
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Lieutenant Colonel D. Khatbaatar, head of the Disaster Prevention Department of the Capital City's Emergency Department, provided information about the security and protection during the Naadam festival.
From July 10 to 18, the entire staff of the department will be on high alert and stationed at Khui Doloon Khudag.
To prevent potential disasters and accidents among festival-goers, firefighting, rescue, and search units are carrying out their duties 24 hours a day at the Central Stadium and Khui Doloon Khudag.
Additionally, to protect city residents from flood and water accidents during rest and recreation, boat and mobile patrols are operating from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM along the Tuul, Selbe, and Kherlen rivers.
Moreover, 24-hour camera surveillance has been installed at eight hazardous locations along the Tuul River, and warnings are being provided to the public near the riverbanks.
More than 1,050 police officers are working at the Central Stadium
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn
During the National Naadam Festival, a total of 2,136 officers from the police and internal military units are working to ensure public safety, maintain order, and prevent incidents and violations.
Specifically, more than 1,050 officers are stationed around the Central Stadium, over 900 around Khui Doloon Khudag, and 186 officers are serving citizens at Sukhbaatar Square.
The General Police Department advises festival-goers to be vigilant, take precautions against possible risks, ensure their own safety, and closely monitor young children at all times.
3,700 Police Officers On Duty During the Naadam Festival
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: news.mn
During the National Naadam Festival, 800 police officers are serving in the area surrounding the Central Stadium, around 900 officers are stationed near Khui Doloon Khudag, and over 2,000 officers are working on road traffic management, all with the aim of ensuring public safety, maintaining order, and preventing incidents and violations.
In addition, children who get lost are being temporarily housed at a child protection center until their parents or guardians can be located, according to M. Oyundari, a specialist from the Child Crime and Violation Prevention Division of the General Police Department. To prevent children from getting lost, over 3,300 children have been given printed wristbands containing the relevant contact information of their parents or guardians.
Warning: Attention to Residents in Govi-Altai Province
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The National Emergency Management Agency issues a warning to the residents of Govi-Altai province, as well as to those vacationing and traveling in the area.
Tonight, on the night of July 12 to 13, a substantial amount of rainfall will occur in the territory of Govi-Altai province. The rainfall will reach levels considered a hazardous weather event, with more than 30mm of rain expected within a period of less than 12 hours.
Therefore, it is advised to be cautious of heavy rainfall and the dangers of sudden floods.
Parents Urged to Attach Protective Bracelets to Prevent Children from Getting Lost During Naadam
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Mobile child protection services are operating at the Central Stadium and Khui Doloon Khutagt during the Naadam holiday. In order to ensure children's safety and prevent potential risks, the Agency for Family, Child Development and Protection has stationed 26 staff members at the Central Stadium and 30 staff members at Khui Doloon Khutagt to provide continuous mobile child protection services.
Therefore, the agency urges parents to visit the mobile service desks at these locations and attach protective bracelets to their children to prevent them from getting lost.
Tourists: The Attitude of Mongolians Towards Their National Festival is Interesting
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The second day of the National Naadam Festival is ongoing.
We spoke with foreign tourists celebrating at the Central Stadium area to hear their impressions. The visitors said they liked how Mongolians celebrate their national festival in a peaceful and warm atmosphere. They also found it interesting that the opening ceremony reflected the uniqueness of the nation's traditions.
Let us share the impressions of tourists from Utah, Alabama, and Las Vegas in the USA. Howard, from Alabama, has lived in Mongolia for two years. He attended the Naadam opening ceremony for the first time and said wrestling was the most interesting among the "Three Manly Games."
Grant, who came from Las Vegas, has been in Mongolia for a year. For him, watching the horses gallop around the stadium was the highlight of his first Naadam. He enjoys wearing the Mongolian deel (traditional garment) because it is comfortable. He found the outfits of participants very impressive and delicious taste of khuushuur (meat pastry). "Mongolia is truly a wonderful country," he said.
Another tourist, Jamal from the USA, shared, “This is my first time in your country. I’ve met many wonderful people, tried various foods, and watched the wrestling competition. The opening ceremony of Naadam was very different from celebrations in other countries. The music, dance, and horse parade were very moving. It was great to see everyone waving their flags and celebrating with pride. For me, the young men riding horses and performing were the most amazing. Now, I have a better understanding of Mongolian traditional clothing, food, and the three national sports—wrestling, archery, and horse racing.”
Tran Hong Han, a reporter from Vietnam, also shared, "This is my first time in Mongolia. The beautiful nature, scenery, and fresh air have left a deep impression on me. I especially liked that the opening of the festival maintained its traditional character."
Florent Greder from France said, "I arrived yesterday. I couldn't get a ticket, so I could not enter, but the events happening outside are interesting, and since there are fewer people, it feels quite pleasant. Mongolians’ approach to this festival is fascinating. Seeing people dressed in their national garments, smiling, and calmly walking around makes me feel truly moved and warm. As a sumo enthusiast, wrestling is the most interesting so far. Mongolia has produced many great sumo wrestlers, perhaps because people start training in wrestling from a young age. Watching the wrestling matches and the horse races on the screen is also enjoyable. I plan to travel around Mongolia by bike for a month, so I’ll probably have more impressions, but even now, I am sure I’ll recommend this country to others."
Additionally, around 8,500 foreign tourists have come to watch this year’s Naadam festival.
965 Police Officers Deployed at Khui Doloon Khudag
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Police officers are responsible for the security and management of the National Naadam Festival. Today, 646 officers from the police and internal military units are on duty at the central stadium to ensure the safety of attendees, prevent crimes and incidents, and carry out protection and regulatory duties, according to the National Police Agency's Media Center.
Meanwhile, around the area of Khui Doloon Khudag, where the horse racing is held, 965 officers from the police and internal military units are on duty.
Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form, unless agreed upon and with appropriate source attribution (ikon.mn).
Citizen: Thanks to the police for allowing us to watch the Soyolon race without closing the roads
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Due to the official visit of the Emperor of Japan to Mongolia, temporary changes and closures in traffic movements caused public frustration and criticism online. Some citizens highlighted that they had to wait for many hours because of the road closures and a lack of information.
However, today, on July 12, Emperor Naruhito visited Khui Doloon Khudag and watched the Soyolon horse race.
During this time, citizens were concerned that roads might be closed and traffic jams would occur, but police officers organized things well and allowed free movement.
A citizen shared his opinion on this matter, saying: “During the protection of the Emperor of Japan, I thank the police for opening the road all the way to Khui Doloon Khudag without disrupting traffic, and for allowing us to watch the Soyolon horse race.”
General Police Department: Fatal Incidents Due to Alcohol During the Holidays
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: news.mn
The police department provided an update on the situation during the National Festival holidays. During these days, police and internal troops personnel have been working at heightened readiness, with about 4,700 officers on duty. On the first day of the festival, the police received and processed a total of 2,032 calls and reports, of which 89 were related to crimes, 727 were related to violations, and 298 were connected to traffic accidents.
Among the notable cases during the holiday period, the following incidents were highlighted. A death related to alcohol consumption was reported. In Khentii province, a suspected case occurred where, reportedly due to excessive drinking within a family celebrating the festival, one family member may have killed another. The local police authority is currently investigating the incident.
4,500,000 tugriks were stolen using a foreign national’s bank card. In Sukhbaatar district, a complaint was made by a South Korean citizen about losing their wallet. It was discovered that the individual’s card had been used in three unauthorized transactions, totaling 4,500,000 tugriks, which is now under investigation. The police urge the public to be vigilant against pickpocketing.
Two people died and several were injured in traffic accidents. On July 10, roads leaving Ulaanbaatar were congested, and about 150,000 vehicles traveled to the countryside. In Uvurkhangai province, a collision between two cars resulted in five injuries, while in Bayankhongor province a car overturned, resulting in the tragic deaths of two citizens. The General Police Department reminds citizens traveling on local roads to adjust their speed appropriately and follow traffic regulations.
PHOTO: Spectators Waiting for the Yearling Horse Race
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
A large crowd has gathered to watch the yearling horse race in honor of the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution and the National Naadam Festival. In the prestigious festival's swift yearling horse race, 195 chosen horses have raised dust on the track.
PHOTO: From the National Festival's Ceremonial Fireworks Event...
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The National Grand Festival is being celebrated in a magnificent manner, marking the 2234th anniversary of the Tülegar state, 819 years of the Great Mongol Empire, the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution, and the 35th anniversary of the Democratic Revolution. The opening ceremony of the festival took place yesterday at 11:00 AM and then again at 9:00 PM. After that, the ceremonial fireworks began and lasted for about 10 minutes. Please enjoy this photo report from the ceremonial fireworks event.
Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web sites) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form. It can only be used when agreed upon and with proper source attribution to (ikon.mn).
PHOTO: Festival visitors covered in dust at Khui Mandal during the Soyolon horse race
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Soyolon horse race, known for featuring the fastest and most spirited horses, has taken place and the winners have been determined. Mongolians, who deeply revere horses, keenly follow the races of this age group and consider it lucky even to be covered by the dust raised during the event.
In this year's Soyolon race: The bay colt trained by Z. Mendsaikhan, a member of parliament from Myangat soum in Khovd province, finished first. The runner-up was a brown horse trained by N. Munkh in Norovlin soum, Khentii province. Third place went to B. Gantulga's bay horse from Erdene soum, Govi-Altai province; fourth was a grey horse owned by D. Avaasuren from Bayandelger soum, Sukhbaatar province; and fifth was a brown horse of B. Bayarmagnai, also from Bayandelger soum, Sukhbaatar province.
We present to you a photo report that captures the riders heading for and finishing the race, as well as the admiration and interest of the festival crowd.
Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) are prohibited from fully or partially using our content in any form. It may only be used with prior agreement and by citing the source (ikon.mn).
REVIEW: Mongolia's Great Celebration Naadam-2025 with a New National Lion and Distinguished Guests
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
With special permission from MPA Agency, we present this overview. The Naadam festival, marking the 2234th anniversary of the founding of the first Mongolian state, the 819th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution, and the 35th anniversary of the Democratic Revolution, concluded with grandeur.
A particular highlight of this year's festival was the state visit of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito and Her Majesty Empress Masako of Japan. They witnessed the spectacular opening ceremony and observed the archery fields, knucklebone shooting tents, and the famous Soyolon horse race at Khui Doloon Khudag. The Japanese media's extensive coverage of these events served as major publicity for Mongolia.
The opening performance, themed “Eternally Illuminated Mongolia,” was directed by State Laureate and Honored Artist N. Naranbaatar with more than 2,500 creators participating. The horse-head fiddle performance by four boys captivated audiences, and the creative “Walking Piano” became a hot topic on social media. Horse-riding performances also deeply inspired the festival goers.
Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh opened the festival, emphasizing, “We, the descendants of our great khans, must protect the hearth of the Great Mongol State, uphold and honor the legacy of our Great Khan, pass on our governance traditions and cultural heritage to our children, strengthen our unity, and work relentlessly to build a powerful Mongolia.”
Wrestling
The national wrestling competition was as exciting and spectacular as ever. Among the 512 wrestlers who participated, the final four were: State Grand Champion N. Batsuuri (Khovd sum, Uvs province), National Champion P. Burentugs (Davst sum, Uvs province), National Nachin (Falcon) E. Batmagnai (Jinst sum, Bayankhongor province), and Aimag Lion N. Usukhbayar (Ongon sum, Sukhbaatar province).
Fans dubbed the finals a "battle between generations." After intense contests, E. Batmagnai from Jinst sum, Bayankhongor province, and N. Usukhbayar from Ongon sum, Sukhbaatar province, reached the last match. Ultimately, E. Batmagnai became the National Lion after nine victories, marking the first time in 76 years that Bayankhongor province has produced a National Lion.
New titles this year included:
National Nachin:
- Sh. Otgontugs (Jargalthaan sum, Khentii province, "Khilchin" sports club)
- M. Byambadorj (Airag sum, Dornogovi province, "Aldar" sports club)
National Khartsaga:
- M. Belgutei (Bayan-Uul sum, Dornod province, "Khilchin" sports club)
- O. Naranbaatar (Kharkhorin sum, Uvurkhangai province, "Aldar" sports club)
Horse Racing
Here are the top five horses for each age category in the races.
Khyazaalan (2-year-olds):
Out of 256 registered, 195 actually competed. Winners:
1. Bayankhongor province, Khujirt sum, B. Gantig’s bay, ridden by 10-year-old Ts. Tuvshinsaihan
2. Khalkhhalzan, Khovd province, 10-year-old B. Narmandakh
3. Govi-Altai province, B. Erdenebileg
4. Arkhangai province, N. Sumyabazar
5. Khentii province, Ts. Tserentogtokh
Shudlen (3-year-olds):
Out of 225 registered, 131 started. Winners:
1. Tuv province, J. Tumen-Ulzii’s stallion, ridden by 9-year-old N. Boorchi
2. Zavkhan province, S. Bayarbaysgalan
3. Tuv province, D. Mungunbaatar
4. Tuv province, A. Tuvshintugs
5. Uvurkhangai province, A. Dalai-Ochir
Stallions:
Out of 153 registered, 106 passed the withers height standard. Winners:
1. Bayankhongor province, I. Zolboo’s chestnut, ridden by 9-year-old B. Munkhbileg
2. Orkhon province, 10-year-old G. Gansuren
3. Khuvsgul province, B. Namchin
4. Orkhon province, Ts. Bold-Erdene
5. Umnugovi province, B. Naranbaatar
Ikh nas (Mature breeds):
Out of 210 registered, 161 participated. Winners:
1. Sukhbaatar province, B. Eruult
2. Khovd province, A. Badar-Uugan
3. Tuv province, S. Ulziikhüü
4. Govi-Altai province, T. Bayanmunkh
5. Bayankhongor province, G. Javkhlan
Soyolon (Young horses):
Out of 195, 128 started. Winners:
1. Khovd province, Z. Mendsaikhan’s gray, 14-year-old L. Tugjargal
2. Khentii province, T. Bayartuvshin
3. Govi-Altai province, B. Narmandakh
4. Sukhbaatar province, M. Amartuvshin
5. Sukhbaatar province, N. Boorchi
Daaga (Foals):
Out of 240, 123 competed. Winners:
1. Tuv province, M. Enkh-Erdene
2. Dundgovi province, B. Altangadas
3. Khuvsgul province, B. Bat-Orshikh
4. Dornod province, M. Tögöldör
5. Khuvsgul province, L. Davaadorj
Archery
Over 640 archers tested their skills in this year’s archery contests.
In the National Archery section, among men, Kh. Khureltuya from Bayn-Ulgii province (Aldar sports club) hit 38 out of 40 arrows and earned the title "National Sharpshooter." Among women, Ch. Gandavaa from Dornod province, Bayandun sum, Halluun-Undur bag, also hit 38 out of 40 arrows and received the same title.
In Uriankhai archery, Khuukhin Myagmarjav from Bayn-Ulgii province scored 27 points and earned the title of National Sharpshooter in this discipline.
For Buryat archery, T. Ganbaatar from Bayangol sum, Uvurkhangai province scored 47 to win among men, and Z. Bolormaa from Darkhan-Uul province won among women with 44 points, earning the National Sharpshooter's title.
Knucklebone shooting
In the senior category for the 2025 Naadam, 192 archers in 24 teams competed.
- 1st place: "Ai Trans" LLC team from Delgerkhaan sum, Tuv province, led by D. Khurelsukh, Darhan Sharpshooter of Mongolia
- 2nd place: "Khangaard" team from Erdenet Mining, Orkhon province, led by A. Batbayar, Aimags' Sharpshooter, Bayan-Agt sum, Bulgan province
- 3rd place: "Khaikhan Undur" team from Jargalant sum, Bayankhongor province, led by D. Gendenpil, Aimags' Sharpshooter
Dear reader, you can access more information about the National Naadam Festival here.
Notice: Any use of this information by media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, or Websites), in whole or in part, is prohibited except with agreement—and must cite the source (ikon.mn) when permission is granted.
Environment
Noise Levels Are Measured but Control and Accountability Are Lacking
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
With the arrival of warm weather, Ulaanbaatar city is abuzz with intensive road, construction, and development activities, leading to heavy noise pollution from trucks and machinery, much to the frustration of residents. To add to the problem, more young people are now revving up cars and motorcycles to experience speed and noise.
Mongolia has standards like MNS 17-5-1-21:1992 and UCS 2002A:2023 to control and regulate environmental noise pollution. These standards stipulate that allowable noise levels in residential areas should not exceed 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night. However, in reality, noise levels in Ulaanbaatar city are 2-3 times higher than these limits. As a result, there are now decisions in place to limit movements of cars and motorcycles that emit excessive noise.
In an effort to reduce environmental noise pollution, the City Control and Inspection Agency has installed over 10 noise measuring devices in key streets and public areas of the capital, such as Sukhbaatar Square, horoolols III, IV, and X, Bokhiin Urgoo, Tavan Shar, the 32nd Circle, and around Dambadarjaa. However, these devices only collect data and lack mechanisms for control or accountability. Plans are afoot to change this: the city council will soon discuss regulations to use AI-powered cameras to monitor and enforce accountability for overly noisy cars and motorcycles.
Forest Fire in Yeruu Soum, Selenge Province Has Been Fully Extinguished
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Forest fires have broken out in the Mandal, Yeruu, and Khuder soums of Selenge province. According to information from the National Emergency Management Agency, the fire that occurred in the Khan Khentii special protected area at the "Ar Tsant" site, in the Buuragchin bagh of Yeruu soum, was completely extinguished today at 13:50.
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The fire in Yeruu soum of Selenge aimag has been fully extinguished
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The General Authority for Emergency Management has reported that the fire in Yeruu soum of Selenge aimag has been fully extinguished today.
More specifically, the fire in the area called "Ar Tsant" within the "Khan Khentii" special protected area in Buuragchin bag of Yeruu soum was extinguished at 13:50 on 2025.07.12.
Health
The Emperor and Empress of Japan Visit the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Emperor of Japan, Naruhito, and Empress Masako visited the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital, which is affiliated with the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS), on July 9. The director of the hospital, P. Bayasgalan, introduced the hospital's activities, and they toured the inpatient ward, where they met with representatives of doctors, nurses, and medical professionals who have been educated in Japan.
According to MNUMS, the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital fully carries out the functions of a university hospital and makes significant contributions to sustainable management, human resource capacity in the health sector, medical services, training, and research, raising them to international standards.
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Family Clinics Operating in the Capital City During the Festival Days
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Information is being provided about family health organizations that will be operating in the capital during the National Naadam Festival and the public holiday period.
Medical Services Provided to Officers Working at the Fire Site
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Medical assistance is being provided on-site to the officers from the Emergency Management Departments of Arkhangai, Uvurkhangai, Govisumber, Selenge, Darkhan-Uul, Bayankhongor, Bulgan, and Orkhon provinces, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the National Rescue Brigade, who are working to extinguish forest fires in Mandal, Yeruu, and Khuder soums of Selenge province.
The mobile medical team, led by Lieutenant Colonel D. Khongor, Head of the Administration, Legal, and Human Resources Department of NEMA, includes specialist doctors and nurses from NEMA, the 111th Air Search and Rescue Unit, and the 113th Rear Unit.
Medical services provided to the 152 officers working at the fire site include: support in cases of bee, tick, and snake stings, initial wound care, detoxification, immune support, anti-inflammatory treatment, treatment for burns, allergies, blisters, digestive tract disorders, tonsillitis, abscesses, and various skin infections.
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LIST: Family Health Centers Operating During the Naadam Holiday
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: ikon.mn
We present to you the family health centers that will be operating during the Naadam national holiday and public rest days. The following family health centers will be open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, from July 12th to 17th, 2025.
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Sports
Should Mongolian National Wrestling Become a Professional Sport?
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: news.mn
Wrestling is a source of pride for Mongolians and the highlight of national celebrations. However, nowadays people often ask: “Should national wrestling also undergo changes?” As all sports develop and reach a professional level, how should Mongolian wrestling move forward? Is it possible for it to become a professional sport? Sports commentator B. Batzaya studied this question while attending the University of Stirling. His research was titled "Should Mongolian National Wrestling Become a Professional (Sport)?"
In 2016, while he was director of the MNB Sport channel, Batzaya realized the value of domestic content. At the time, Mongolians enjoyed watching foreign sports content such as the UEFA Champions League, the English Premier League, and NBA games. Therefore, he reasoned that Mongolia needed its own local content as well. In thinking about which sport could be developed, he thought of Mongolian wrestling, since it already had its own audience, investors, and base, but had not yet developed professionally.
For these reasons, he researched and developed a project aimed at transforming national wrestling into a professional sport. Within this project, he addressed the following pressing issues:
- A lack of statistical information about Mongolian wrestling
- Poor quality of live broadcasts
- Absence of data and record-keeping
To solve these problems, he introduced statistical analysis into wrestling matches and utilized advancements in technology to enhance live broadcasting.
Regarding this, B. Batzaya commented: "The live broadcast of wrestling during the 2018 Naadam festival was on a different level. Over 100 statistics were presented live to viewers during the broadcast. Shortly after, I went to the UK to study for my master’s degree. When I told my advisor about my research topic, he said, 'It’s possible.' Then he told me to study sumo. In addition to sumo, I also studied wrestling in '-stan' countries."
In Japan, the development of national sumo wrestling was greatly influenced by the advent of color television. It is said that in the 1960s, with the spread of color TV, sumo began its journey to becoming a professional sport. Originally, non-sumo professional wrestling—essentially, more rough forms of wrestling—grabbed public attention in Japan. Later, as live broadcasts improved and television coverage advanced, sumo’s value increased. Service businesses and markets started showing sumo on large screens. Also, the entry of foreign wrestlers intensified competition and brought new perspectives.
Special attention should be paid to several factors if Mongolian wrestling is to become a professional sport. In particular, doping. Some wrestling enthusiasts believe that as a cultural heritage, Mongolian wrestling does not require doping tests. However, doping control is an inseparable part of professional sports.
On the other hand, the wrestling titles and the unique system of choosing opponents (the 'am avakh' system) are unparalleled in the world and are distinct features that set it apart from professional sports. If professionalization occurs, a separate ranking system would be necessary. Since last autumn, the Wrestling Association has begun awarding ranking points for indoor competitions and giving rewards at the end of the season, which seems to be the beginning of this process. Of course, for state celebrations and Naadam, it is proper to proceed by title rankings.
There is a solution to organize Naadam competitions and professional wrestling matches separately. B. Batzaya said, “It’s very easy to settle the opponent selection. There’s no need to interfere in major state tournaments. Like sumo, just hold an indoor professional-level tournament every two months. That will raise it to a new level. I saw this was possible back in 2018. Mongolian wrestling already has the audience and investors that professional sports require. Only two things are missing: television production and governance/management. If those are addressed, it will become a professional sport.”
If national wrestling becomes a professional sport, all attention—prize funds, sponsors, viewers—will be focused there. Thus, Naadam should remain the traditional tournament, while the new system of professional wrestling should be developed as a modern sports event, distinctly separate. However, if national wrestling becomes a professional sport, will it be able to gain international recognition?
Even though professional sumo is highly developed in Japan, it has not reached the Olympics or become globally widespread. Still, because the internal system is well structured, it remains successful. For Mongolian wrestling, Batzaya believes that rather than dreaming of immediate global expansion, it is more realistic to focus on improving the system domestically and developing it among Mongolic peoples.
He said, “Once people said team sports would never develop in Mongolia. But now, things are clearly different. National wrestling can also become a professional sport. However, our wrestling is unique in combining sport and art. On the one hand, constantly preserving cultural heritage seems to be a great advantage, but on the other, it might hold back sports development. This, I think, is something Mongolians do not understand.”
Turning national wrestling into a professional sport requires strong participation from the wrestlers themselves. Doping, rules and regulations, discipline, responsibility, and contract systems must be discussed. Professional athletes are judged not just by their abilities, but also by discipline, ethics, adherence to rules, and accountability.
Currently, the major negative influence on the reputation and image of national wrestling is doping. According to Batzaya, doping violations are driven by the prize incentives—housing, cars, and cash rewards that appear just one win away, pushing wrestlers to use doping to gain an advantage over opponents.
Batzaya explained: “This issue is the same as in the Olympics. Olympians also face doping scandals. If the prizes are high, anyone would try using doping for just one or two days in order to win a five-room apartment or a 570 series car. If you become an Olympic champion, you leave a legacy. Athletes have used doping since the old days. WADA tries to fight it, updating the list of banned substances every year, but athletes always find loopholes. In other words, they use substances not yet banned.”
Another issue, beyond doping, is the relationship between sport and politics—should they be together or separate? In professional sports, they are distinct, but since national wrestling is part of state celebrations, it cannot yet be separated. Therefore, only by organizing separate professional wrestling tournaments can issues like match-fixing and unfair competition be resolved.
Batzaya said: “Only the private sector can do this. Politicians will never make it happen. In Mongolia, this might only develop after many years. In small countries like ours, sports and politics tend to develop in connection. But it won’t go on like this forever. Wrestling styles are the only ones that seem still closely connected to politics.”
Silk Road Cyclists Have Arrived in Mongolia
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
Participants of the "Silk Road" cycling tour, considered one of the world's longest and most challenging cycling journeys, are currently traveling across Mongolia. This international cycling tour, organized by TDA Global Cycling after the pandemic, has attracted over 30 cyclists from nine countries, including the USA, UK, Austria, and Canada this year.
They began their journey on June 8 in Beijing, China, and entered Mongolia through the Zamyn-Uud border checkpoint on June 26, traversing 9,165 kilometers across eight countries. The cyclists will cross 2,300 kilometers within Mongolia, passing through Dornogovi, Govisumber, Tuv, Ulaanbaatar, Bulgan, Khuvsgul, Arkhangai, and Uvurkhangai provinces over 25 days, before heading to Kazakhstan’s capital on July 20. The final destination of the tour is Istanbul, Turkey, where they are expected to arrive by October 8.
This is Mongolia's fifth time welcoming participants of the "Silk Road" tour. This time, the tour in Mongolia is being organized and assisted by Mongolia Expeditions and Tour LLC.
The Winning Chestnut Colt is Indeed a Four-Year-Old Soyolon Horse
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
In the race for four-year-old horses (soyolon) at the 104th National Naadam Festival commemorating the People's Revolution, 195 colts competed. The chestnut colt owned by Mendsaikhan Zagjjav from Myangad soum, Khovd province, came in first.
After the speedy soyolon horses' race, a dispute arose, with an individual claiming that the winning horse was not a soyolon and demanding a re-examination.
Based on this complaint, the commission of the Fast Horse Sectoral Committee decided to conduct another dental examination of the chestnut horse. The examination was led and explained by the committee's head of dental checks, Mr. Zorigtbataar.
According to him, upon re-examination, the main four teeth were in place and the outer incisor teeth were baby teeth, confirming that the horse is indeed four years old and fits the age criteria for the soyolon race.
SOEOLON: The Swift Khul Yearling of Zagjavin Mendsaikhan from Myangat Sum, Khovd Province Won First Place
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: gogo.mn
In commemoration of the 2234th anniversary of the founding of the first Mongolian state, the 819th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the National Freedom and Independence Restoration, the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution, and the National Festival Naadam—the swift soёolon horses have finished their race.
The champion was the swift khul yearling, trained by State Leading Trainer Zagjavin Mendsaikhan from Myangat sum of Khovd province.
Taking second place (runner-up): The swift boroo yearling of trainer N. Munkh from Norovlin sum, Khentii province.
In third place: For the second year in a row, the swift heeer soёolon of B. Gantulga from Erdene sum, Govi-Altai province clinched a top spot at the national festival.
Fourth place: The heeer khalzan soёolon of trainer D. Avaasuren from Bayandelger sum, Sukhbaatar province.
Fifth place: The bor yearling of trainer B. Bayarmagnai from Bayandelger sum, Sukhbaatar province showed great speed.
The Third Round of the National Wrestling Festival Continues
Published: 2025-07-12 | Translated from: news.mn
The wrestling tournament of the National Grand Festival, dedicated to the 2234th anniversary of the Mongol Statehood, the 819th anniversary of the founding of the Great Mongol Empire, the 114th anniversary of the restoration of national independence and freedom, and the 104th anniversary of the People's Revolution, features 512 wrestlers led by five champions. The first and second rounds of the wrestling competition have concluded. The third round of wrestling is ongoing.
In the third round, 128 wrestlers, including State Honored Champion N. Batsuuri, State Champion P. Buren-Tugs, G. Erkhembayar, O. Khangai, S. Munkhbat, National Champion D. Munkh-Erdene, Ts. Sodnomdorj, B. Orkhonbayar, and E. Oyundbold, are competing. As of 11:25, wrestlers such as National Champion G. Erkhembayar, National Champion D. Munkh-Erdene, National Champion D. Gankhuyag, H. Munkhbaatar, State Honored Student N. Jargalbayar, D. Baasandorj, and M. Üsukhbayar have already been defeated.
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