The people of Mongolia had been waiting a long time for a gold medal-winning hero and, in judoka Tuvshinbayar Naidan, they found a man worthy of every accolade. Four years after “healing his nation” by securing a first-ever Olympic crown, Naidan simply refused to be beaten by serious injury.

Tuvshinbayar Naidan claims Mongolia's first gold medal as he defeats Ashkat Zhitkeyev of Kazakhstan in men's half-heavyweight judo. Naidan shows more aggression at the start of the match, taking a commanding lead, but is unable to score an ippon. Zhitkeyev tries to pin Naidan, but the Mongolian counters with two more throws to win the gold. Judo 100kg Men Final - Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics - Tuvshinbayar Naidan (MGL), Askhat Zhitkeyev (KAZ)

Judoka Makhgalyn Bayarjavkhlan leads Mongolia's Olympic athletes in the Parade of Nations during the Beijing 2008 Opening Ceremonies. Marching with pride the Mongolia athletes carry the Olympic hope of their nation. Mongolia - Parade of Nations - Opening Ceremony - Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics

London 2012 - Battsetseg Soronzonbold celebrates with Mongolia’s flag upon winning a bronze medal in women’s wrestling 63kg freestyle on 8 August, 2012.