The recent summer Olympic games were historic for Mongolia and her athletes. A Mongolian heavy-weight judo contender won the first Olympic Gold Medal in Mongolia's history. Later, toward the end of the games, another Gold Medal was won by a Mongolian boxer, after he defeated a cuban in the title match. Two silvers were also brought home, in boxing and shooting, respectively. Needless to say, this city was beside itself with jubilation and revelry. Below are pictures I took while watching the final boxing match live on the jumbo-tron that we have outside our apartment, near the State Department Store. The street was blocked off and crowds had gathered to see the fight.
I must confess, as much as I love seeing the the gold brought home by our good 'ole US of A (way to go Phelps!), it was fun to see Mongolia get so excited about winning a couple of Gold Medals. Young and old were high-fiving in the streets and a renewed patriotism was evidenced in all quarters. It was a happy time for the nation, particularly after the recent riots.
So with our Mongolian friends, we say "Altan avsan shuu... bayariin hurgiea!"
(roughly translated: We got gold! Happiness wished to you!)