On March 7, 2026, Ihor Yosypiv became the first Ukrainian to run barefoot across a frozen lake while wearing a traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt (vyshyvanka). The athlete covered a distance of 3,900 meters in 26 minutes and 12 seconds, setting a Ukrainian record in the categories “First Ever” and “Sports.”
Behind this achievement stand decades of dedication to sports, daily training, and years of cold-conditioning. Ihor Yosypiv is a Master of Sports of Ukraine in Taekwondo, holder of a 4th Dan black belt, Vice President of the Taekwon-Do GTF Association of Ukraine, and President of the Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Federation. He has been involved in sports for 33 years and has 26 years of coaching experience.
What was the main motivation behind this record?
According to the athlete, cold-conditioning has long been an integral part of his life.
“Cold-conditioning for me is a healthy lifestyle, energy, vitality, and self-affirmation. It is also an example for my son, Ihorchyk, and for the students of the Golden Dragon Champions Training Center. Throughout the winter, we run barefoot in the snow together and practice cold-conditioning.”
How long did you prepare for the record?
Although the run itself lasted just over 26 minutes, the journey toward it took years.
“I prepared for this record for 13 years. In 2012, I set my first record by running 12 kilometers barefoot on snow. That was when the countdown to my next major goal began — running across our frozen lake.”
Was there ever a moment when you wanted to stop?
Ihor Yosypiv admits that for an athlete, the most important thing is never to lose faith in one’s own abilities.
“For athletes, there is no such thing as giving up. I am used to achieving my goals through sweat, hard work, and blood. You must move confidently toward victory.”
The record carried special meaning through its title, “UNBREAKABLE.” For the athlete, it was not just a run but a symbolic message to all Ukrainians.
“I ran for our strong and unbreakable Ukraine. This run was about all of us — about people who survived and endured despite the war, enemy attacks, and every hardship.”
The record also had a charitable purpose. During the event, 16,000 hryvnias were raised to support Ukrainian soldiers.
“In these difficult times, it is important to help every day. This is how we move closer to Victory together.”
What record-breaking plans do you have for the future?
The record holder is already thinking about new challenges.
“My next record will be a barefoot run in the snow around my hometown of Ivano-Frankivsk. I also dream of setting a special record for my anniversary. But for now, it remains a secret.”
Ihor Yosypiv’s story once again proves that records are not created in a single day. Behind every achievement stand years of hard work, belief in one’s own abilities, and a desire to inspire others by personal example.