Two Russians in the dark…
Published on 09.03.2008 - General Info
A rather unusual feat is currently in the process of being completed by two Russian adventurers, Matvey Shparo and Boris Smolin, who have spent the winter months trekking from Cape Arktichevsky to the North Pole.
Setting out from the Cape on 22nd December 2007, the two Russians are attempting to repeat exactly the same feat than that which was carried out successfully by Borge Ousland and Mike Horn in 2006.
As you would expect, the men have experienced the same difficulties and setbacks as their predecessors â falling in the water, fear of the constant darkness, encountering open leads of water where there should be ice, extreme temperatures (down to as much as minus 48°C!), etc.
At this precise moment, the two men have passed latitude 89º North and are on the brink of success. They are just now beginning to see a glimmer of light above the horizon and are able to progress 4 hours a day without having to use their headlight. Ice conditions are good.
