Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
CALIFORNIA, Md. — For Southern Maryland equestrian Kami Bitting, crossing the finish line of the 1,000-kilometer Mongol Derby was nothing short of surreal. Known as the toughest horse race on Earth, the Derby pushes riders across the Mongolian steppe on semi-wild horses with little more than GPS points, paper maps and grit to guide them. Out of 45 competitors, only 28 made it to the end. Bitting not only finished, but tied for fourth in her heat and ninth overall — an accomplishment she never expected.
“My objective was just to finish,” she said. “Placing in the top 10 was huge for me — I didn’t expect it.”
Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
Her journey began more than a year ago, when she applied among 200 U.S. hopefuls and was surprised to receive an invitation. To prepare, she rode 1,000 training miles on her own horses in the heat of Southern Maryland, testing gear and building stamina. Every detail mattered — riders were restricted to 11 pounds of gear and a maximum dressed weight of 187 pounds to protect the horses. At every checkpoint, veterinarians ensured each animal’s heart rate dropped to a safe 56 beats per minute before riders could continue.
“The horses’ well-being always comes first,” Bitting said. “You’re trusting an animal you’ve never met to carry you across unknown terrain. That’s humbling.”
The race was not without its dangers. “Day 4 was the hardest. At that point your body isn’t ready, but you press on,” she said. Her perseverance reflected a deeper motivation: she was riding for her mother, who is fighting melanoma. Bitting carried the Melanoma Research Foundation on her sleeve as a reminder.
“My mom has been my biggest supporter. Having her name with me made her part of this journey, spiritually if not physically. It was important to raise awareness — it only takes a little sunburn to put you at risk.”
Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
Beyond the physical challenges, the Derby gave Bitting rare cultural encounters with Mongolian nomadic families who opened their homes each night. With only a few words of shared language — “hello” and “thank you” — she relied on the kindness of strangers. One family, in the middle of hosting a funeral, still brought her food, cold soda and breakfast for the road.
“They had no idea who we were when we showed up, but they were so welcoming,” she recalled. “It shows you how generous these people are and how different their world is from ours.”
Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
Throughout the race, her husband and friends kept Southern Maryland’s horse community updated on her progress, flooding social media with support. That encouragement, she said, helped carry her through the toughest miles. Though she didn’t grow up here, she now calls Southern Maryland home and credits its equestrian network for embracing her.
“I love living here,” she said. “The support has been incredible.”
Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
Now, with the Derby behind her, Bitting is already setting her sights on a new challenge: a 10-day race through Patagonia, Argentina, known as the Pass of Tears, where riders navigate harsh mountain terrain with only two horses. But more than the next race, Bitting hopes her journey inspires others to take risks for themselves.
“I appreciate all the support, but I think it’s important to challenge yourself for you,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to try. You don’t have to prove anything to anyone else. By pushing yourself, you’ll learn so much about who you are.”
From the steppes of Mongolia to the horse farms of Southern Maryland, Kami Bitting’s grit and determination have proven what’s possible when courage, purpose and community come together.
Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
Photo Courtesy of Photographers for the Mongol Derby 2025
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
Related