Rights groups urge better treatment for Mongolia child jockeys

Child jockey Bat-Erdene, 11, is seen on his horse at the Mongolian traditional Naadam festival, on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia July 11, 2018. Picture taken July 11, 2018. REUTERS/B. Rentsendorj

ULAANBAATAR (Reuters) - At the opening of Mongolia's traditional Naadam festival, red-cheeked child jockeys in brightly coloured outfits and helmets raced over the muddy steppe in a 24-km (15-mile) endurance race, excitedly whipping their mounts.

The festival held last week highlighted a sport that is a source of prestige in Mongolia, where nomadic families take pride in their children becoming jockeys and racing their horses.