Photos

The Cowboys of the Cold: Mongolian Horse Riders (PHOTOS)

The bond that exists between Mongolian nomads and the horses they ride is strong. Photographer Batzaya Choijiljav set out to capture that bond in stunning photos at the Winter Horse Festival, an event that takes place in the Khentii province of eastern Mongolia where the horsemen show off their riding skills and the strength of their horses."Horses are a big part of a nomad's life, but they still maintain their wild nature," Choijiljav told Caters News Agency. "The horses live in herds, led by a stallion who guides the horses to water, shelter and safety. The horses are hardy and adapted to living out in temperatures that can reach minus 45 degrees, and they are able to forage for food in any condition."

(MORE: Photographing the Brutal Mongolian Winter)The strong and resilient Mongolian horses are credited with helping Genghis Khan form the Mongol empire in the 1200s, according to Detroit Newstime. Their small and stocky build is ideal for endurance riding."Besides transport, Mongolians use horses for sport," Choijiljav said. "Horse racing in winter is a chance for nomads to examine their preparation for the cold winter and practice their horse herding skills."

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