Bazar’s Gobi March Training: Life, Culture & Preparation — Part 2

In our first instalment (if you missed it, catch up here), we met Bazar, a young herder from western Mongolia preparing for the RacingThePlanet Gobi March, a 250km stage race across one of the world’s most demanding deserts. Now, as the race draws closer, we catch up with him again to see how his training is progressing in the mountains of Khovd, and how his nomadic lifestyle continues to shape his approach to endurance.

Building Strength in the Mountains

Bazar’s training has been steady and purposeful. He’s working toward a 70km long run, gradually increasing his distance and spending most of his time on mountain trails.

“I’ve been training well… most of my runs are in the mountains to get used to the elevation.”

For a first‑time ultramarathoner, the Gobi March brings plenty of unknowns, but he feels well aware of what will test him most.

“The heat will be the biggest challenge. But I grew up in a harsh climate — I’m used to tough conditions.”

That resilience is becoming a defining part of his preparation.

Choosing the Right Kit

Like many runners preparing for their first stage race, Bazar is still finalising his gear list. He’s researching shoes, clothing, and — most importantly — the right hydration vest.

“Proper hydration and sun protection are my top priorities.”

It’s a simple approach, but a smart one. In the Gobi Desert, staying cool and hydrated is half the battle.

Fueling for Long Days

Bazar’s nutrition is rooted in tradition. His mornings begin with milk, tea and a light meal before training, followed by a full meal afterwards. He’s also leaning into the foods he knows best.

“I’m incorporating animal fats and fatty meats for sustained energy.”

For multi‑day racing, this kind of slow‑burn fuel can be a real advantage — especially for athletes accustomed to it.

When it comes to Expedition Foods, he knows exactly what he’s looking for:

“I’m choosing the High‑Calorie (800kcal+) range and meat‑based meals.”

It’s a natural fit for his training and his heritage.

The Land That Shapes the Runner

Growing up in the Mongolian countryside has shaped how Bazar sees the world — and how he runs.

“The environment isn’t an obstacle — it’s a companion.”

He talks about the freedom of running under the open sky, the long ridgelines, and the sense of calm that comes from moving through familiar landscapes.

When asked what foods visitors should try, he smiles.

“Mountain goat meat. They graze on the rarest medicinal plants. And Khorkhog — meat cooked with hot stones — is the perfect recovery meal.”

It’s a glimpse into a culture where food, land, and endurance are deeply connected.

Life in the Ger

Bazar still lives in a traditional Mongolian ger — a structure designed for all seasons and built entirely from natural materials.

“Two or three people can set it up or take it down in 30 minutes. We leave no trace. We live in balance with the mountains and the sky.”

For runners who value simplicity and sustainability, it’s a philosophy that resonates.

Resilience Forged in Winter

Mongolia’s winters are famously harsh, but Bazar doesn’t describe them as something to endure — he describes them as something to embrace.

“There are difficult times, but we overcome them together—with family, our loved ones, and our loyal dogs and horses.”

His father’s words guide him:

“Behind every great difficulty lies the most beautiful reward.”

It’s a mindset that fits perfectly with stage racing.

RacingThePlanet

Bazar's full updates so far can be found on the RacingThePlanet blog, here. 

Looking Ahead

As the Gobi March approaches, Bazar continues to build his mileage, refine his gear, and lean into the resilience shaped by years of nomadic life. Part 3 will follow his final preparations — and how he’s getting ready for 250km of heat, sand, and self‑sufficiency.

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