I am absolutely thrilled to share I have been invited as 1 of 40 riders from around the world to race in the 2026 Mongol Derby. This prestigious event is dubbed the world’s longest and toughest horse race; it's a journey through the heart of Mongolia, spanning 1000 kilometers (621 miles) with nothing but 11 pounds of gear, a GPS, and roughly 25 semi-feral horses I'll be choosing along the way. Every year, hundreds—if not thousands—of people from all over the world apply to ride, with only 40 riders ultimately being chosen. To say I'm overjoyed to be selected is truly an understatement!

Growing up in suburbia Chicago, riding horses was not something that was readily available. I was gifted riding lessons at age 7 at a local barn and from then on all I wanted to do was ride. I spent my high school years balancing school and sports while simultaneously taking lessons and working at a nearby barn to help pay to show a school horse no one really wanted to ride. I would work the events at the barn and help the farm hands feed and muck stalls for extra rides and $6 under the table. For most of my riding career, I was the one willing to ride the horses that most people thought were crazy. But I loved it! Those horses taught me how to build confidence, trust, leadership and did nothing short of teaching me hard work, balance, humility, authenticity, patience, overcoming fear, and how to listen. As I grew into a Dressage rider, I worked hard to hone in on these traits. For anyone that would give me a chance to do something great on or off a horse, I was willing to go above and beyond to prove I could. I was determined to do something great with horses.

If you are unfamiliar with what Dressage is – it’s the art of horse riding and the foundation to all horse sports. Its origins date back to the ancient art of creating a war horse – meant to be fearless and carry its rider into battle. What the dressage horse stands for by training, is what the Mongolian horse stands for by nature. Mongolian horses are the true warhorses of the world – dating back all the way to Genghis Kahn in 1224. Little has changed to the Mongolian horses – they have remained the same, unchanged by the human world.

For 10 days straight during the Mongol Derby, from dawn till dusk, I will push myself to the limit, covering 40 kilometers (~25 miles) at a time on horseback, navigating my own way through 25 checkpoints. I will rely on my riding skills, physical endurance, navigational acumen, mental strength, and no shortage of luck. I will rely on the nomadic Mongolian families to provide me with food and a floor to sleep on by night. Most importantly, I will rely on a series of wild Mongolian war horses to carry me through their land, putting all my trust in them that we as a team can make it through each checkpoint.

This adventure isn't just about personal challenge; it's about representing true horsemanship and embracing the spirit of exploration and endurance that defines the Mongol Derby.

However, as excited as I am to participate, the financial commitment is substantial! The entry fee alone for 2026 is $18,000, with additional costs for travel and essential gear totaling around $25,000. I will need ongoing support to help me cover the remainder of the fees as I still have rent and monthly bills due as life continues on.

The $18,000 entry fee covers:

The rest will be divided between flights, medical insurance, riding gear, pre-race accommodations, and the charity of my choice.

I am reaching out to you today, filled with both excitement and gratitude, seeking your support to help make this dream a reality. Your contribution will not only enable me to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime event but also to represent the US in our shared spirit of adventure and determination as it relates to the horse community on a global stage.

Any money donated will be used to pay these monthly installments leading up to the race and ultimately my dream of competing. Any amount you’re willing to contribute is greatly appreciated. If you are unable to contribute monetary support at this time, a share with your family, friends, and network would mean the world. In return, you can depend on me to train hard and strive to win!!

Sponsorship packages are available for the use of your logo on my helmet and gear:

Thank you for considering my request. I am eager to take on this challenge, with your support propelling me forward every step of the way!

Warm regards,

Danielle D'Agostino

***If you are interested in a business arrangement which includes company endorsements, etc - please feel free to email me directly via gofundme***

VENMO: @duod22