Arctic Everlasting Part 2

In the northernmost town in the world. In harsh Arctic conditions. More than 20 hours of riding in -15°C. For the safety of Ukrainian refugees. This is Arctic Everesting part 2.

We are in the icy 2.6 km long Everesting hill from road 400, close to Longyearbyen airport, and up to Mine 3. This is about as close to the North Pole you can find a road.

Early bird. Photo: Kent Erik Harridsleff.

Today’s first sunbeams warm in the cold. Not on the body, but in the heart. The temperature is just as low, it is still -20˚C/-4˚F and when heading down to turn for a new lap, the speed approaches 45 km/h/28 mph. The 'feel like’ temperature is down to -35˚C/-31˚F. The sun aren't making the temperature rise, but it is good for the mind.

- It's so beautiful here.

I can't keep my eyes of the view. From dawn at the start at 5.15 AM, until now at 7 AM, it has been magical. Steep mountains raises straight up from the fjord. The Arctic air makes everything look clear and clean.

- I'm lucky to do this.

I'm cold, once again. The first hours of cycling have been better than I feared, but I constantly have to stop in the warming room in Mine 3. I can not get a drink while riding either. Going downhill, the water in my bottle freezes, and uphill I then carry half a liter of ice.

Day dreaming

- It's warmer in Kenya.

Antony, a cycling buddy of mine, challenged me to go there instead. Next time, I'll go to a warmer area, I reckon. What about Hong Kong, where my cycling clothes are produced? Everesting up to Victoria Peak.

My mind wanders, and I just let it happen. I do not have to control my thinking. Daydreaming helps me mentally escape from the suffering.

No need to hurry. Patience is a gift.