A ten-year-old skier is currently attempting to cross Spitsbergen from south to north, combining an ambitious Arctic expedition with a focus on experience rather than speed.
Mina Floriana Read set out on 26 March together with her father, Alexander Read, and a small expedition team. If successful, she will become the youngest person to complete a full crossing of Svalbard.
According to information shared by the team, the expedition is not intended as a record attempt but focuses on spending time together and learning more about themselves, each other and the natural environment. The project is described as an effort to create “turmagi”, or the magic of the journey.
After more than two weeks on skis, the group has covered over 300 kilometers. Their journey began at Van Keulenfjorden, the southernmost point accessible by snowmobile, before continuing to the southern tip of Spitsbergen and then turning north for the main traverse.
The full route spans around 600 kilometers with approximately 7,000 meters of elevation gain. The team has allocated 46 days for the expedition, which is longer than what is typically planned for similar crossings.
This slower approach allows for rest days, weather delays and time to experience the Arctic environment, setting the expedition apart from more performance-driven crossings.
During the expedition, Mina is also collecting snow samples as part of a research initiative on environmental pollutants. She records snow depth, conditions and observations, contributing to efforts to understand how persistent chemicals travel through the atmosphere and accumulate even in remote Arctic regions.
“We are really enjoying the journey together and creating turmagi”, Alexander Read said in an update from Svalbard.
The team includes experienced Arctic travelers and is accompanied by a dog named Dirigenten. They follow standard safety procedures for polar travel, including continuous polar bear watch, safety equipment and logistical support.
With a young participant at its center, the expedition offers a different perspective on travel in extreme environments, placing emphasis on presence and shared experience over speed.
Léa Zinsli, PolarJournal