In the remote township of Laohutai in Baicheng, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Mareyam Ahmat found her calling amidst the rugged mountains and the fascinating world of horse-riding patrols. At just 20 years old, this computer science graduate was captivated by the blend of strength and grace she witnessed during her first equestrian show last August. Little did she know that just a month later, she would embark on a path that defied expectations and embraced community service.
Baicheng's horse-riding border control cavalry, China’s only such unit, patrols a stretch of remote border with Kazakhstan, leveraging the unique capabilities of horses to navigate the rugged terrain, which averages an altitude of about 2,000 meters. Recognizing the local cavalry's vital role, Mareyam said, "I was hesitant at first because I was concerned about my physical fitness, but I made up my mind after learning that the cavalry also helps local herders during their seasonal migrations in the summer and winter. It’s a job that is not only cool, but also quite meaningful."
Established in 1956, this cavalry unit has long served multiple purposes: reinforcing border security, providing emergency assistance, increasing awareness of laws and policies, and escorting local herders. The cavalry consists of 120 members, with Mareyam being one of only 15 women. These women undergo rigorous training in 10 disciplines of horsemanship, from basic reining techniques to more specialized skills like swordplay. Mareyam reflects on her experiences, stating, "It involves wielding a sword forcefully while riding a galloping horse. Riding a horse already demands a ton of strength and good balance, and I need to further build my muscles and sharpen my mindset to master the skill."
Standing while riding to observe situations from a distance adds another level of difficulty for Mareyam. "At first, I could hardly straighten my legs and felt my core, arms, and legs shaking violently when attempting that move," she candidly shared. But the support from experienced cavalry members, embodied in phrases like "do not be afraid and never give up,” helped her navigate the initial hurdles of becoming a part of this elite unit.
Joining Mareyam on this fascinating journey is Mikrayi Sidik, who became a member of the cavalry in August 2022 and is now the head of the female unit. Mikrayi, only four years Mareyam's senior, grew up in Laohutai township and has been horse riding from a very young age. "Where I grew up, horse riding is an essential skill for children, and everyone takes pride in our ability to ride horses," she explained. The cultivation of her passion for horses was encouraged by her father, a well-known local veterinarian. Inspired by witnessing cavalry training during a trip with her father in 2015, Mikrayi remained ambitious and pursued joining the unit.
Initially, both her father and cavalry officials rejected her aspirations due to the demanding nature of the job and a long-standing tradition of not recruiting females. However, Mikrayi's unwavering determination led her to practice riding independently while working after college. She actively sought to impress the officials with her growing proficiency. Her dedication eventually paid off; the cavalry welcomed her, acknowledging her efforts and skills. "But I soon collected myself, reminding myself that it was not easy for me to join the cavalry and realize my dream of becoming a professional rider and protecting my home and country," she reflected on her tough days.
The unique role of this cavalry in China has not only forged new paths for women like Mareyam and Mikrayi but has also catalyzed economic growth in their community. The cavalry conducts equestrian shows for tourists, generating significant interest and attracting visitors to the area. This influx has prompted local officials to encourage entrepreneurship within the community, leading to the establishment of shops, guesthouses, farm stays, and yurts, which collectively create jobs for over 240 local individuals. Reports indicate that these businesses have helped raise the average monthly income for locals by over 2,000 yuan ($275).
Mareyam and Mikrayi’s stories are not just about horse riding skill; they represent the transformation of expectations for women in traditionally male-dominated roles. They serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating how passion, resilience, and determination can change lives and impact communities positively.
As they continue to train, patrol, and support local families, both Mareyam and Mikrayi exemplify the spirit of the cavalry, highlighting the blend of tradition, service, and empowerment for women in Xinjiang. With every ride, they patrol not only the borders but also the boundaries of societal norms, proving that the horse—and the courage that comes with it—can lead to profound change.
