Congratulations to Arvis Sprude who set a record for Capital-to-Capital, Vilnius, Luthuania to Tallinn, Estonia (The Baltic Way) course in the Male, 18-49 age group, on an upright bike categories.
Record Attempt Report Baltic Way Vilnius to Tallinn (28.09 – 29.09)
Start: 28.09, 2024, 09:17 (Vilnius, Lithuania)
End: 29.09, 2024, 17:10 (Tallinn, Estonia)
Movement Time: 26 hours 34 minutes
Total Time (including breaks): 31 hours 53 minutes
1. Overview of the Attempt
On September 28, 2024, we embarked on a journey paying tribute to the Baltic Way. This record attempt was both a personal sporting challenge and a symbolic gesture to honor the unity of the Baltic nations in their fight for freedom. While the original plan was to begin in Tallinn, logistical changes moved the start to Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey began at Odminių Square in Vilnius’ Old Town and concluded at Tähis in the center of Tallinn on September 29, 2024.
2. Route Details
The route spanned 500 miles (800 km) and included key historical and symbolic stops in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, staying true to the path of the **Baltic Way**. Notable stops along the route were:
– Lithuania: Vilnius (start), Panevėžys, Ukmergė
– Latvia: Bauska, **Riga (Freedom Monument), Valmiera
– Estonia: Viljandi, Rapla, Tallinn (finish)
3. Weather and Conditions
While the daytime weather was favorable, temperatures dropped below 0°C during the night in Latvia, causing discomfort. This prompted an extended break, allowing recovery before continuing on the journey.
4. Nutrition and Energy Management
Throughout the trip, Maurten products were used to manage energy levels and maintain endurance. This attempt served as a test to understand how these nutrition products affect performance under physically demanding conditions.
5. Symbolic and Motivational Significance
This attempt was a tribute to the Baltic Way and the unity of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The journey carried deep emotional meaning, serving as a reminder of the courage and collective strength that drove the Baltic nations toward independence in 1989. While the physical challenge was substantial, the symbolic nature of the route inspired me to push through the difficulties.
The goal of this record attempt is to inspire others to take on this journey, improve upon the time, and continue honoring the historical significance of this route. I believe that future attempts can be faster, as this journey was more about reflection and symbolism than speed.
6. Reflections and Challenges
The drop in temperature during the night in Latvia presented the greatest challenge, but it was managed with a longer break to restore energy and warmth. Despite this, the overall journey was incredibly meaningful, as it connected modern endurance efforts with the historical roots of the Baltic struggle for freedom.
7. Team Acknowledgments and Support
This record attempt would not have been possible without the incredible support of my team. I extend my deepest gratitude to: Oskars Dankbars Roberts Porins Kristaps Pelcers Arno Kikurs Toms Flaksis Aksels Bresme
Their support, encouragement, and dedication helped me stay motivated throughout the journey. I also owe special thanks to BMC for providing an exceptionally fast bike, which played a crucial role in completing the challenge.
Additionally, a huge thank you to everyone who followed along and cheered me on during the journey. Your support was vital in helping me overcome the tough moments and successfully complete the distance.
The Vilnius to Tallinn record attempt was more than just an endurance test; it was a tribute to the Baltic Way and a call for unity, freedom, and perseverance. Completing 500 miles in just over 31 hours, this journey was a success despite the cold conditions and necessary rest breaks.
I hope this record inspires many more to take on the challenge and explore the symbolic and historical significance of this route, both faster and in deeper reflection of our shared Baltic heritage.