From the jungle to the ice arena – the Latvian spirit lives on!

Today, on July 9, the transport and logistics company Kurbads proudly and respectfully honors two remarkable Latvians - Aleksandrs Laime and Kārlis Skrastiņš. Their life stories are more than just pages of history - they continue to inspire courage, determination, and the Latvian spirit both here at home and far beyond our borders.

Aleksandrs Laime (1911–1994) - a legendary explorer, world traveler, and adventurer - would have celebrated his 114th birthday today. He was the first person to reach the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls in Venezuela (979 m), on foot. As he charted the surrounding region, Laime named many natural landmarks after rivers in his homeland - Rio Gauja, Rio Daugava, Rio Venta, Rio Ogre - embedding a piece of Latvia deep in the jungles of South America.

Laime’s life was filled with risk, courage, and an unrelenting passion for the unknown. He explored remote regions of Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador, and was part of a National Geographic expedition that remeasured Angel Falls and contributed to the accurate mapping of the area. A scenic viewpoint overlooking the falls is named in his honor - Laime Mirador, or “Laime’s Balcony.”

To honor his legacy, Kurbads, in collaboration with artist Alfreds Paulausks, has created a specially designed truck cabin. At its heart is a historic photograph from Laime’s South American expedition, sourced from the personal archive of his friend Ēriks Dzenis. The image has become a symbol - of the strength of the Latvian spirit and the tireless drive to explore the world.

Kārlis Skrastiņš (1974–2011) – one of the greatest Latvian hockey players of all time, a long-time national team captain, and widely known as the “Ironman” – was also born on July 9. A strong defenseman with unwavering character and firm principles, he became a cornerstone of the Latvian national team and a role model for young athletes.

Throughout his career, he played 832 NHL games with the Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers, and Dallas Stars, and represented Latvia in three Olympic Games and nine World Championships, totaling 151 appearances for the national team. On February 8, 2007, he made history by setting an NHL record for defensemen — 495 consecutive games played, surpassing even the legendary Tim Horton.

To honor his legacy, Kurbads dedicated a newly commissioned car carrier, fleet number #121, to our IRONMAN’s memory. This act continues the company’s tradition of celebrating individuals whose work ethic and values have become symbols of inspiration. “Skrastiņš was a true legend,” says Kurbads Logistics Manager Toms Hartmanis. “He was the Ironman not just on the ice, but in people’s hearts.”

It’s worth noting that hockey has always been a core part of Kurbads identity. The company founded and continues to develop its own hockey club, HS Kurbads, and actively supports Ledus Halle “Kurbads” — a facility where young athletes train and both local and international tournaments are held. The #121 truck, dedicated in the spring of 2025, is not only a tribute to a great athlete, but also a reflection of Kurbads’ long-term commitment to support and grow the culture of hockey in Latvia.