N64 · 1998 Original adventure guides. Remake mechanics are not assumed.
Keep a little mystery.
Start with the gentlest clue, or go straight to the route below.
01A gentle nudge
This friendship begins before Link grows up. Speak to Malon at the ranch with your ocarina ready.
02A clearer direction
When you return as an adult, the horse you need is not simply the nearest one. Try the melody she remembers.
03The final clue
Ingo must lose twice. After that, a closed gate is a riding challenge rather than the end of the quest.
Ready when you areThe complete route
Learn Malon’s song in childhood. As an adult, summon Epona during Ingo’s riding session, beat him in two races, then gallop over the ranch’s outer barrier.
Make a promise in childhood
After Talon returns from Hyrule Castle, find Malon in Lon Lon Ranch’s corral during the day. Talk until she mentions her mother’s song, then show your ocarina.
Choose Epona
Return as an adult. Pay Ingo 10 Rupees to ride, play Epona’s Song and mount her. Let the session end, then pay for another ride.
Win both races
While mounted on Epona, target Ingo and accept the 50-Rupee race. Win, then accept his rematch for the horse. Hug the inside of the track and preserve a carrot until the final sprint.
Leave on your own terms
Ingo closes the exit after your second win. Build speed and approach the gate or a low outer wall head-on. Epona jumps when you reach it at a gallop.
Before you spend the wager
Practice lining up fences during the riding sessions. Approaching at an angle can make a horse refuse the jump.
Sources & version notes
Written for the original Nintendo 64 game. Not a Master Quest or remake walkthrough. Mechanics checked against the following fan-authored references on October 4, 2026.
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