Gobi March Part 3: How Bazar’s Training and Nomadic Life Carried Him Through Mongolia’s 250km Desert Race

Overview

A week in the Gobi Desert teaches you things you don’t expect, about heat, patience, resilience, and the quiet power of good people. We talked with Bazar after he completed the RacingThePlanet Gobi March about what really happened out there. 

Catch Up

If you’re joining Bazar’s story now, here’s a quick catch up.

In our first instalment, we met him as a young herder from the mountains of Khovd — someone whose endurance was shaped long before he ever trained for a race. His days were spent moving livestock across steep ridges, working with horses, and covering long distances on foot. That nomadic rhythm built the kind of strength that comes from weather, work, and miles. When he talked about the Gobi March, he framed it simply: “My goal is to conquer myself.”

By the second instalment, the race was getting close and his training had settled into a steady mountain routine. Most runs were long, quiet efforts at altitude, building toward a 70km day. He worried about the heat but trusted the resilience he’d built growing up in a harsh climate. His preparation stayed practical: refining gear, focusing on hydration, and leaning into familiar foods. Expedition Foods’ high‑calorie meals became part of that rhythm, especially the meat‑based ones that reminded him of home.

We also learned more about the world he comes from: the ger built for all seasons, the winter work that demands grit, the traditional foods cooked with hot stones. All of it shaped the runner who eventually stood at the start line of the Gobi March, grounded, prepared, and carrying a lifetime of quiet endurance into the desert.

Together, those first two instalments show how Bazar arrived ready for the challenge ahead. And as you’ll see in his Q&A, that foundation carried him through every mile of the race.

What You’ll Find in This Story

• A simple conversation
• Real moments from the race
• Small details that stayed with him
• And a look at what comes next

Before We Dive In…

Most evenings in the desert ended the same way: boots off, tents ready, and a warm Expedition Foods meal that made us feel human again. That rhythm shaped the week, and it shaped this conversation too.

Your Questions, Answered

Expedition Foods (EF): Now that you've finished, how did the reality of the race compare to your initial expectations?

Bukhsuuri Bazar (BB): The organization was absolutely superb and exceeded every expectation. Because everything was managed so flawlessly, it took a huge weight off my shoulders and made what I thought would be an overwhelming physical challenge feel much more manageable. I am deeply grateful to the organizers for supporting me and providing all the essential mandatory equipment - including the gear, shoes, and clothing - which allowed me to focus entirely on the race.

(EF): Did you have a specific physical or emotional turning point during the second half of the race?

BB: I didn't experience a severe physical breakdown or crisis, mainly because the medical team and staff offered the best support imaginable throughout the entire event. A special thanks to Jacqueline, I truly cannot thank her enough for her incredible kindness and care during the race!

EF: Which section of the race did you find most demanding, and why?

BB: The sandy stage was definitely the toughest section for me. Sand kept getting into my shoes, and the intense heat from the sun made every step feel like a battle. Despite those harsh conditions, I pushed through, dug deep, and overcame the challenge. 

EF: How did your strategy or mindset change as fatigue set in?

BB: I focused on pacing myself early on so I wouldn't burn out prematurely. During the first few days, I was careful to save enough energy in reserve to ensure my legs were ready for the next day's stage.

EF: How did Expedition Foods help during the tough days? Which meals gave you the best boost when energy was low?

BB: I really loved all the meals! Being Mongolian, the 1,000 kcal meals gave me the absolute best fuel and energy boost when I was feeling drained. In fact, I still crave those exact meals every time I go out for a run now! 

EF: What was the camp atmosphere like near the end? Did any shared moments with competitors stand out?

BB: This was my very first major event, and I was so thrilled to participate in a race that brought together people from all over the world. Meeting so many friendly, incredible individuals in one place was unforgettable. The camp atmosphere was perfect - warm, supportive, and inspiring.

EF: Looking back, what surprised you most about your own resilience?

BB: I learned from my mistakes each day and kept improving throughout the race. Realizing how much stronger and sharper I became as the challenge intensified was a revelation. It made me realize that running is definitely something I want to pursue deeply moving forward.

EF: Was there a moment of joy that stood out, even amidst the exhaustion?

BB: Yes! Sharing the trail with my campmate Jacob from the "Genghis Khan" tent made the daunting 80 km stage feel so much easier and more enjoyable. Meeting everyone has made me want to improve my English so I can connect even better with international friends next time. Also, a huge thank you to Rob. He is such an amazing person, and I’m beyond grateful for his support. It was a flawless race!

EF: What would you tell the version of yourself who wrote those first pre‑race blog posts?

BB: I would tell myself, "Don't doubt yourself; you are so much stronger than you imagine or think. Look at how much you've grown, and look at what you can achieve when you push your limits."

EF: How has completing the Gobi March changed your perspective on what you're capable of?

BB: Having such a rare and life-changing opportunity right here in the vast, remote western territory of my homeland, Mongolia, completely opened my eyes to my full potential. Thank you so much to everyone who made this possible!

EF: Finally, what’s next for you? Rest, a new challenge, or something else?

BB: My plan now is to keep developing myself and continue running! This race helped me discover who I truly am, and it gave me an overwhelming amount of inspiration, drive, and confidence for the future.

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