Wrestling, Archery, and Racing: Genghis Khan’s Draft Still Takes Place in Mongolia

In mid July every year, all over Mongolia, business in the boomtown capital of Ulaanbaatar and in the tiny towns dotting the country comes to a standstill — as day laborers, miners, shopkeepers and almost every man, woman, and child head to their yurts to prepare for the Naadam Festival. As the main wrestlers are built like linebackers and move like cheetahs, one can only imagine who the woman was who won.] Related: Mongolia’s Secret Natural Wonder Initially, Naadam began as a way to let off steam or show off after weddings or gatherings, but during Genghis Khan’s reign (and for hundreds of years after) it formalized into a showcase of talent and a way for warriors to catch the king’s eye. These days, with the pillaging over, Nadaam celebrates the 1921 revolution when Mongolia officially declared itself an independent country. The day starts with an elaborate ceremony in the National Stadium — where dancers, horsemen, and musicians perform scenes from Mongolia’s past — including, naturally, Genghis Khan’s domination.