The evening began with a minute of silence in memory of Adam Borejko, a traveller and friend of Suchowierski, who died this year during his journey through Yakutia. The author then recalled the 2014 expedition he took part in together with Ioann Czeczniew and Igor Kowalczuk. Over the course of 76 days, they covered a distance of 3,500 kilometres across Yakutia, travelling from south to north in temperatures reaching as low as minus 55 degrees Celsius. It was not only a sporting challenge, but also a journey to places connected with the fate of exiles and victims of repression, paying tribute to them.
The historical dimension of the journey was particularly emphasised. The route led through towns that appear ordinary today, yet their past was revealed through stories told by local historians. In one of these towns, the expedition members learned that modern buildings stand on the site of former camps, and that there are graves in the area that are almost invisible in the landscape.
There were also accounts of how to cope with the extreme cold: protecting the face with a layer of bear fat, using tape to shield the nose and cheeks, and inner tubes bursting not because of sharp objects, but simply due to the temperature. One of the most difficult moments was the attempt to cross a mountainous section of the route. Rescuers warned that with temperatures dropping to minus 60 degrees, the travellers might not reach the next settlement. They made several attempts, turning back to repair their equipment, and finally succeeded on the third try.
In this story, people were just as important as the cold. Along the way, the cyclists were helped by lorry drivers, villagers, and local communities—some offered accommodation, others invited them into warm vehicle cabins to repair their bikes, and others treated them to hot tea, fish, or soup. This simple but invaluable help made it possible for them to continue. As the author emphasised, without these people, the expedition would not have succeeded.
During the event, attendees had the opportunity to see Krzysztof Suchowierski’s new book Cycling Through the Frosts of Yakutia, which had arrived from the printers just the day before, as well as to speak with the author and get an autograph.
