The world record of a Russian and a Canadian turned 30 years old.

Exactly 30 years ago, in 1995, Russian doctor Mikhail Malakhov and Canadian traveler Richard Weber accomplished the impossible: they were the first in history to ski from the Canadian island of Ward Hunt to the North Pole and back across the drifting ice. Their record still remains unbeaten.

The expedition lasted 123 days. The polar explorers went alone, without air support, without dogs, communications and external assistance, relying only on their own strength, endurance and competent training. Their success was the result of six years of careful planning, from calculating the diet to selecting equipment that can withstand the extreme conditions of the Arctic.

What was it like

At a press conference in the editorial office of Rossiyskaya Gazeta dedicated to the anniversary of the expedition, Mikhail Malakhov recalled:

"We lived a life of moving ice. It was important to maintain a balance of energy. After the expedition, we looked like "dried Hercules" — I lost 1.2 kg, Richard — 1.8. But it was a great result. Without training, you can lose 20 kg, which would be fatal for me at a weight of 70 kg."

Every day they walked 20 km, dragging sleds with a load of 230 kg. In conditions of permafrost and isolation, even everyday trifles became a test: in order not to freeze, they shaved, brushed their teeth, and morning coffee turned into a ritual reminiscent of home.

Friendship, endurance and international cooperation

Despite the difference in characters — Malakhov is more sociable, Weber is restrained — they never quarreled during the whole journey. "It's not worth talking in the Arctic for nothing," the Russian polar explorer noted with a smile.

Yuri Lepsky, Deputy editor-in-chief of Rossiyskaya Gazeta, stressed that it is important for us that the development of the Arctic takes place not through conflicts, but through international friendship, as it was in the expedition of Malakhov and Weber.

Legacy of the feat

After returning, Richard Weber became a 20-time Canadian champion in cross-country skiing, and Mikhail Malakhov continued his research in extreme medicine.

Jeff Mantel, the sponsor of the expedition, a professor of mathematics and a polar explorer, admitted: "They did something mystical. I was a football referee, my life was in danger more than once, but their risk is incomparable. They became brothers to me."

Traveler Dmitry Shparo is confident: "The children who are now walking 100 km to the North Pole are proud of their endurance." He is sure that new brave souls will appear who will repeat this route.

The expedition of Malakhov and Weber is not just a record, but a symbol of the human spirit, friendship and victory over the elements.