We think about Valera, about his wonderful family, remember and grieve! There was a completely star man next to us, a world-class athlete, real hero, and we could easily communicate with him. And we appreciated this and believed that nothing would happen to him, believed in his caution, in his methodicalness, in his star ...

Alexander Abramov: Valera has accomplished so many things in his life ... such a huge number of ascents and expeditions. I try to remember everything. And more and more I remember. A huge number of accomplishments. Projects. Probably a critical mass has accumulated.

Alexander Abramov: Once again, a reminder to everyone: the mountains are not a toy. Be careful. Take care of yourself and take care of the participants. How careful Valera was. As far as he checked everything 10 times ... Please check everything 11 times.

VALERY ROSOV: "THREE THOUSAND VOLTS - AND I BREAKED THE FOOT

He is the coolest extreme in the world. Having collected all the records as a parachutist, I got bored. The main adventures were ahead.

... Rozov looked at us ironically - and we understood that this ice itself would not melt. Rose needs to be liked.

After a couple of hours we parted as friends. We went to the editorial office to write our notes, Valery - to jump off the rocks.

They looked after him and again did not believe: is this young man 51 years old?

Batman

- Your life is full of records. Was there a record for the number of hours without sleep?

Such records were set by a student, preparing for exams. I didn’t really sleep at night. Sometimes it happened during the ascents. I have been doing professional mountaineering for many years.

- We know.

Here I had to work for two days without sleep. The last time was in 2008. We climbed on Cerro Torre, this is Patagonia. Border of Argentina and Chile. They were injected for 45 hours without stopping.

- How did you survive?

Are you definitely from "Sport-Express"? Not from a medical journal?

- So overcoming is our main interest. Everyone has their own secrets.

I have no secrets. When it comes to mountaineering, the most important thing is to maintain the adequacy of perception under stress.

- Then tell us: how do people like you celebrate their 50th birthday?

It's corny. I jumped early in the morning.

- So we thought. Where and where?

From the cliff. It was a very special leap. I've actually been jumping for 25 years, but never happened on my birthday!

- Why?

Was born on December 26. It is cold, then the wind. And here in the Alps I went skiing with my family. The weather is wonderful! How not to jump? Friends arrived in the evening. Celebrated, walked.

Once we came to Fyodor Konyukhov. Says: "I need a specific amount to implement such and such an idea." How much and what do you need today?

There is an idea for a jump in the Himalayas. World record for altitude. The last record is mine - in 2013 I jumped from the northern summit of Everest, 7220 meters. A year later he went on exploration in the Himalayas. Found a great spot, even higher.

- Much?

Five hundred meters. For serious mountains, the distance is enormous. This is an expensive expedition.

- What is the number?

Why make people nervous? Moreover, the numbers are floating. One thing is a sports expedition, climbing a mountain. Another is a jump. Logistics is more complicated and expensive, professional photo and video. Additional costs, considerable! The sum will not tell people anything - it will only cause a reaction: "Well, the requests ..."

- When are you ready to break the record?

Yeah right now. Or in the fall. The Himalayas are the spring and autumn seasons. But you can see for yourself what is happening with the ruble. In a crisis, the first thing that is cut is advertising, marketing. Projects like mine.

- You have found a new point for the record. Is this the limit?

I am sure there are points for jumping over 8 thousand meters! So far I can’t poke my finger into the map: "Right here" - but I guess where. Hard to reach place. The slightest mistake in logistics - and it becomes very dangerous. The idea is cool, but it does not find a response.

- Maybe this interview will melt sponsorship hearts.

Unless write in the title: "We will urgently help our Batman - and new record Russia has it in its pocket! "By the way, no one has repeated any of my projects in the big mountains. They are unique.

AMPUTATION

- The scar on the hand - a memory of what?

About his own stupidity. In France I wanted to jump from a radio antenna. I got under stress.

- The famous case - when your body withstood 3 thousand volts?

Well, yes. You saw the scar, and these burns are all over my body. From right to left. One foot was torn apart and the shoe melted. The leg was shredded, two toes were amputated.

- Why did you climb the antenna?

Nowadays it is irrelevant - people jump in the mountains, a lot of options. Before, you were considered a base player if you jumped from all fixed objects. BASE is an abbreviation. Buildig - building, Antenna - antenna, Span - arched floors, bridges, Earth - ground. I just needed to close the letter "A".

- What kind of antenna?

Quite famous. I was in France for a competition. A local beiser advised on how to properly climb over a three-meter fence with barbed wire, where are the guards ... Later he called the hospital: "Valera, I forgot to warn you - you must immediately jump from the fence onto the stairs! Without touching the ground!"

- How on time.

Exactly. And I climbed, got dressed, got ready, took up the stairs. And that's all. It shook for a long time. He did not control his movements in any way. Then he fell flat - but was conscious. The feeling that it has become glassy. I remember the thought: now I will crumble ...

- Were you alone?

Three of us. I just grabbed the first. Shouted: "Hurry back." I managed to jump back over the fence - and passed out. They were already dragging me to the road.

- How did they survive ?!

There was a low current - at a high voltage. It saved me. It was also lucky that the blow did not go from left to right. Not through the heart, it didn't stop. But it could.

- Did you spend four months in the hospital?

Two. When the insurance ended, they kicked out. There was some money, friends chipped in. My wife arrived, and they rented a room in Marseilles for a month and a half. I dangled with crutches for bandaging. It was very hard to heal. One after another skin grafts, five operations ...

- Was your face hurt?

No. But they cut the scalp - they took thin muscle tissue for transplantation to the leg lift. More often they take it off the ass - but then half a centimeter would be added. I would have to wear orthopedic shoes.

- In the end, everything is all right?

- Does it somehow limit you?

Of course! Immediately put an end to sport climbing. I loved this business. The foot has lost sensitivity. The jogging leg, I jump from it. For two years I adapted to new sensations.

- People who are in trouble with the electric current discover unexpected talents in themselves.

They told me about this. I waited, waited - it did not happen ...

- How was the fate of your older brother, who infected you with love for the mountains?

Tragic. In the late 80s, it was fashionable for climbers to fly with paragliders. "Sports domes" appeared. The area is small, the dome is ellipsoidal, nimble. We bought them - but we wanted to use them not only as a means of salvation. After all, parachuting is 90 percent what you do during a free fall. Before the parachute opens.

- It's clear.

Here you also have the opportunity to enjoy flying on the canopy. You accelerate it strongly, pull on the rear lines and fly along the ground for a long time, changing the speed from vertical to horizontal. It looked so unusual that it captivated everyone. Although not technically ready. And the brother crashed. On a "low" turn, hit the ground.

- Before your eyes?

Yes. I was downstairs. Let's go without details, this is the hardest story for me.

- Many people would give up jumping after that.

Why? If your friend died in a car accident, won't you get behind the wheel again?

- But we would have traveled differently.

I also began to jump differently. The parachute was already a way of life for me. Do not quit ... By the way, about the accident. I'm used to speed, everything flashes. Because of this, for a long time I perceived the car as a computer game. He drove, rebuilt from row to row, even if he was in no hurry. Basically, I didn't fasten my seatbelt - that was some kind of nonsense! One day a friend drove out of the airfield onto a country road. Speed ​​- forty kilometers per hour. Ridiculous collision, not buckled, blow chest on the steering wheel.

- Died?

An autopsy showed that the heart stopped. Since that day, there is no driver more accurate than me. Belt, no "checkers". Now I understand: not wearing a seat belt is the same as climbing mountains without a rope!

- Figuratively.

Okay, on the rock you can - if the level of skill allows. But without a rope, walking along a glacier filled with cracks is naked nonsense! Because nothing depends on you. You step on a snow bridge, fall through and die. There are thousands of such cases in the mountains per year.

EVEREST

- What mistakes did you go through when you first conquered Everest?

I jumped from a height of 7220. I did not climb directly to the top.

- And you didn't want to?

Not that I didn't want to ... There is high-altitude mountaineering. And there is a technically difficult one - climbing the walls. Personally, I've always liked the second option. In addition, at that time, climbing Mount Everest cost 65 thousand dollars. This money must be found, right?

- It is logical.

You can't say: "I still dream of going to the top. Throw in fifty dollars ..." I don't want to look for money! Trying hard, making money, to put a tick - "was on the top of Everest." And the current commercial ascents with oxygen do not appeal to me as a climber.

- Is it true that every climb to Everest is a blow to your health? Are people starting to think worse?

- Lost memory?

Definitely. This rise acts on the brain. Even after an altitude of 7 thousand, I then gain shape for two or three months. Not athletic - just returning to my normal state of health! But big sport does not bring health at all. Even though you run on skis, you can even go to Everest. This is self-torture. Outside of the body's resources.

- Some of the climbers told us - he was amazed at the number of corpses on Everest. Have you seen them?

No. The corpses lie closer to the top - 8300 and higher. There is a "red zone". Have you seen the movie "Everest"?

There is a lot of believability there. Is that the behavior of the heroes is sometimes strange - they walk unbuttoned, speak in an ordinary voice, do not cough ... Yes, the camp above 6 thousand resembles a tuberculosis hospital!

- Wow.

Everyone coughs, coughs, barely moves. And in "Everest" they arrange some kind of disco. But on the whole - it is accurately conveyed ... So I am about why bodies are not lowered from a great height. People are physically unable to! The relief is such that there is no way to drag an uncontrolled body. This is done with ropes. Do you know how?

- No.

You hang the ropes, organize the descent, the belay. And the route is long! It's one thing to walk on your own. Another is to hang ropes every 50 meters. If you don't have time to return in a day, you have a "cold overnight".

- What is it?

Overnight stay without bivouac equipment. No tent, no primus, no sleeping bag. 99 percent death. For all.

- Talking about the "tuberculosis hospital". We remember how you jumped with a sore throat.

2004, Pakistan. Think about it: you are sick, with a temperature. And you have to do physical work.

- Did you lose interest in what was happening?

It was important to hold out for 2-3 days. The height is not so serious, about 6 thousand. But the inflammatory process develops instantly. Especially pulmonary diseases associated with infection. I was afraid that I would be completely covered, the sore throat would go deeper. Comrade with cotton swabs cleaned my sores in my throat ... Well, jumping is a relief!

- Marvelous.

You instantly teleport to base camp. It's better than two days of hard descent work.

Nikolai Valuev told us: "There are a huge number of cowardly boxers." Have you met any cowardly climbers? Or parachutists?

We discuss this topic often. Climbers of a good level never hesitate to say: "I'm scared", "I'm afraid of this slope," "the stones are flying badly for some reason" ... This is normal! Fear is your ally - no one makes a hero out of himself. It would look silly.

Have you ever given up on something, listening to your inner voice - just because "the stones don't fly like that"?

I had a project. I found a point in the mountains, incredibly difficult. I was already jumping in a wingsuit. Wing suit - you know about that?

- The whole world knows, Valery.

This is essentially a real wing - with an upper and lower shell, air intakes. But I do not pull the lines under it, but they put me inside the wing. I control the flight, skewing own body... Feet, hands, whatever. But you need a vertical part.

- Why?

Then the suit will be filled with air, it will glide along the horizon. And here the vertical part was very short, further the relief began. I was terribly exhausted against the background of a mountaineering ascent, I could not find the strength to collect myself. And most importantly, it's my son's birthday.

- Refused?

By hook or by crook, referring to the wind, the impossibility to shoot a high-quality jump, something else ... Transferred to the next morning. So as not to spoil the holiday for your son if something goes wrong.

- Was the morning successful?

Since we are sitting and talking - of course! Did I remind you of Baron Munchausen?

- God forbid. What place is it?

I will not say. The people who were with me still do not know why they hung on the rock for an extra day.

AVALANCHE

- Does the situation often get out of control?

A tiny mistake is enough for this. Even in ordinary jumps, which I can make in the Alps several times a day, climbing the "cable car". Previously, mountaineering practiced the analysis of accidents. We sat, recalled - who said what, who objected, why did not get in touch. Everything, everything, everything.

- What turned out?

99 percent is a human factor. The stone did not come from the sky, the man was always to blame. In parachuting, it is not so detailed, but it is also disassembled. There is a fatality-list. The same conclusions: "overestimation of their capabilities", "improper use of equipment in this situation." Not to mention the wrong styling.

- Per recent times- out of control situations?

If you don't take your personal life, huh ... We're talking about extreme sports, aren't we?

- Exceptionally.

A couple of years ago, in the Alps, I climbed where it was not worth climbing. I looked at the slope and thought: don't! December 31, half past five in the evening. I'm tired, it's time to go home. Everyone has already gone down, the festive meadow has been covered - and I was impatient to check in.

- Well?

I celebrated the New Year in the hospital, stretching out. Displaced comminuted hip fracture. It is difficult to heal. I started jumping soon, and limped for almost two years. Do you know the main problem of athletes?

- What's the problem?

You transfer skills and psychological confidence from your sport to other activities. I train constantly, great coordination. But skiing is not a professional! Childish mistakes pop up from arrogance.

- Did your mistakes have consequences?

Somehow I jumped from a fairly simple place. Didn't take into account the strong wind, chose a new, difficult line. Often you create a prerequisite - and a chain of inexplicable minor misfortunes kicks in.

- So what happened?

It opened normally - but the lines were twisted. Didn't make it to the clearing. The wind blew into the mountain river. I almost drowned! For fifteen minutes he floundered in the icy water, froze.

- Anyone will start to panic.

I have a good psychological preparation... Behind him is a huge set of emergency situations, which he has already visited. And powerful gusts of wind, and the twisting of lines, and descent on icy rocks ... For some, all this is extreme - but for me it is a natural habitat. A standard set of actions. It's hard when danger comes instantly. Here you are on the verge of life and death. The psyche can not stand it. If you fell off in the mountains or there is an avalanche, there is a minimal chance that you will get lucky. But if you fly to the ground at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour - the chances are zero. You understand: "That's all ..."

- You didn't have that.

There were just such thoughts in the river. Pulls along the coast. The dome went under the water and entails. And he is huge! With the last of my strength I grab onto some branches, they crumble, my hands are covered in blood. I feel that my fingers are no longer obeying. Do not shrink. I am unable to fight. Instead of mobilizing, the brain gives the command to die: "Relax, in five seconds everything will be over ..."

- How did you escape?

Pure coincidence - the dome itself caught on a snag. If not for this, he drowned. I released the tension on the lines and ran ashore. He stood for half an hour, hugging the trunk, warmed up. There is no one to blame but myself.

- Why?

An elementary mistake. Base systems do not have a reserve parachute. You carry "strap cutters" with you. Sharp hook-shaped knife, with one stroke - go! - you cut off the lines. You are freed if you hang somewhere. I dropped it a couple of days before the jump - and spat.

- Have a knife with you ...

“… The problem would be solved in ten seconds!

- Are you a believer?

I am baptized, Orthodox. I can put a candle on. But my relationship with the church is complicated.

- Why do you think this story was given to you?

I can’t imagine. I try not to dig deep. I have several similar stories. Like everyone else who worked in the mountains.

- Someone else's story in the mountains that shocked you?

Anatoly Bukreev. It's a pity we didn't know each other personally. In the 90s, he was a very famous figure among Europeans. Then the unfair attitude of the Americans who published the book. He was accused of leaving the group, not participating in the rescue. Although he had nothing to do with that. None of the guides did this, and Boukreev several times climbed 200-300 meters from the camp, saved people ... In 1997, he died under an avalanche in the Himalayas.

- What is the most ridiculous death of a professional climber in your memory?

Yes, any death is absurd! When I, young, faced the death of friends and acquaintances for the first time, I was shocked. But even more surprising was the reaction of people around: "Look what he did! Who is doing this?" It was perceived as an incident, nothing more. That is, while you are burning, you are a hero. If he got away somewhere, everything: "Who does that?"

- Did you save someone's life?

Of course. Like any climber who has participated in the rescue.

- Have you passed the avalanche?

Never hit. I have a friend who survived two avalanches. They dug it up for the first time. On the second I managed to pull the ring - behind my back was a backpack with an inflatable rescue pillow. She pushes you up.

- Avalanches are not terrible with such a pillow?

The chances of survival are increasing. But an avalanche can easily grind. Hit the stones. Or about a tree. The snow compresses with its own mass. In ten seconds it turns to concrete! You dig up an avalanche that stopped five minutes ago. We have to break! Try not to suffocate when you are below! On the sites there are tips "to do swimming movements" ...

If the snow is heavy, you won't move. Carries you.

HELICOPTER

- You could have ended up in a mountain river. Under the antenna in France. Were there more "borderline" episodes?

The rest, how to say ... "Technical." In Kamchatka, I jumped with two different parachutes, they have their own deployment system. First, a small "jellyfish" is thrown away. He is tied to the top of the dome with a three-meter rope. Inflates, the rope unwinds. During these three meters, it picks up such speed to pull a large dome out of the knapsack.

- Reliable.

Yes. But I got confused because of the change of parachutes. In one "jellyfish" on the leg, in the other - under the knapsack. I grab onto my usual place - it's not there!

- We just shuddered.

And what I felt - can you imagine? It actually opened at ten meters! Saved deep snow. Would you like to describe how the earth looks from a height? At first you see that it is round. Then it becomes huge. Seconds later, it flies at you with insane speed. It starts from two hundred meters. Extremely unpleasant.

- Did you break anything?

All right. The snowdrift was caught as ordered.

- Do you remember every second in that helicopter that was rolling into the abyss?

Oh, exactly! I fell in the mountains in a helicopter! This is an interesting case. By the actions of the pilot I understood that the guy was inexperienced. I could not estimate the distance to the smooth, shining in the sun, snow. Glass distorts the picture a little. I landed several times - and in the end I made a mistake!

- Collapsed?

We are in full uniform at the door, no wind. I see that we are falling like a stone from a height of fifteen meters. They were going to sit on a cofferdam, not a very wide ridge, ending in a steep icy slope. At this moment, a blow from which you fly up to the ceiling. Inside, everything freezes for a second. I think: ugh, wow, lucky. But he begins to hurl from one side to the other. I understand - we are rolling towards the abyss!

- The helicopter stopped at the edge?

No, the ridge turned out to be wider than I expected. The slope is gentle. I have something in my head that the abyss - here it is, next to it. We suddenly slow down. I think for the second time: ugh, lucky. The pilot jumps out first, ha-ha ... Silently, without helping anyone, he scratches in the snow. In a T-shirt and slippers in which he flew from Sochi.

- Why did you run away?

He was afraid that the helicopter would explode. The door is locked. I climb after someone through the window. Behind my back there is a backpack, a climbing structure - I don’t go through. I look around - this Li-8 has a gearbox that rotates the propeller in the center of the ceiling. Fuel drips on him, he is red-hot, the interior fills with heat before our eyes. Kerosene smoke. We are like in a steam room! If the spark explodes!

- Nightmare.

Quickly, quickly I undress, throw out my backpacks, get out ... The mechanic broke down badly, then they carried him down. The rest got off with hematomas. Miraculously.

- Did you catch up with the pilot?

Well, the pilot ... Where is he going to go. Day went down, gave him boots, a down jacket. In general, it is not clear who allowed him to fly. I flew a lot in the Alps - there the pilot is always in warm shoes, there is a jacket. Under the seat NZ with a tent, sleeping bag, kerosene stove, minimal food. If it got dark, and he broke down in the mountains, no one will come to him!

- Have you had more adventures with helicopters?

In the 90s, the engine failed due to poor fuel.

- So what?

Emergency leave. I landed on some kind of clearing. The helicopter is able to maintain control due to autorotation. The main thing is that the pilot does not panic and, figuratively speaking, turn on the neutral speed. He freed the propeller from the gears of the gearbox. Then the propeller unwinds under its own weight, the helicopter does not fall like a stone. But the landing is tough.

- What went wrong in Karachi when you jumped from a 100-meter building - and almost crashed?

In Karachi ... Something we have an emphasis on continuous problems. I have 11 thousand parachute jumps and one and a half thousand jumps from the cliffs. In percentage terms, everything is great. I am a safe athlete in this respect.

CAPTIVITY

- How much does the wing suit cost?

About two thousand euros. I order almost every year. The wear of the fabric is decent - I'm jumping in the mountains. In addition, new models appear that improve the flight quality by twenty percent.

- What are you doing with the old ones?

Houses are lying. Sometimes I give it to my friends. One suit was requested by a Serbian photographer. He has his own fitness club in Belgrade. I hung it there under glass, around my own pictures, which he took in joint expeditions.

- In flight - what kind of sensations?

It's like being shoved into a hard inflatable mattress. To open the parachute, you need to strain your muscles, contract a little. Otherwise, I will not reach the "jellyfish". This slows down the speed. The lower it is, the softer the parachute will open. If we talk about visual images, then it all depends on the type of jumps.

- What is it like?

Normal - when I just fly down. I look around, admire the landscapes, think about something. Proximity jump is much more difficult. You lick the slopes, nestle against them for one and a half to two meters, turn sharply now to the right, then to the left ... Here you need maximum concentration. Not for landscapes.

- The most picturesque of them - during the "normal" jump?

Glaciers. The mountains. Jungle.

- And Kamchatka ?!

No. Kamchatka is a monotonous snow volcano. The landing was spectacular. On the ocean coast, right to the oncoming waves.

- You were the first in the world to jump into the mouth of an active volcano in Kamchatka.

Well, yes. He flew into a two-hundred-meter funnel between the active zones of the crater. From there came hot steam mixed with hydrogen sulfide. You can't stay there for a long time. A terrible stench, my head cracked for half a day. There was another danger as well. If, when opening the parachute, there were problems with the canopy, the twisting of the lines could fall into a boiling acid puddle.

- Uf-f.

Perhaps the most vivid impression is one of the first jumps from a cliff. Venezuela, Angel Falls ...

- Height under a thousand meters?

979. This is the place that Conan Doyle described in The Lost World. In the mountains, there is always something obstructing the view. Nearby ridge, for example. And there is an endless jungle under you. You are standing on the top, twenty steps away from you with a terrible roar of megatons, water falls ... Fantastic!

- Have you encountered spiders, snakes in the jungle?

God had mercy. I saw poisonous frogs - cute, colorful. You cannot touch them. The wild bees bothered me the most. As in the cartoon about "Mowgli". The first ray of the sun - and you are covered all over!

- And dichlorvos?

Useless. No insect repellent works. It is important not to make sudden movements, to close clothes. Bees don't bite. But if it flies under the shirt, you accidentally press it under your armpit - it will hurt. The jungle is a continuous, monotonous drone. Even at night. Such darkness, even if you gouge out an eye. And everything around lives on, not abating for a second. Endless hooting, clicking, clicking, buzzing ...

-… growl?

This was not, I will not lie. For a week we climbed Mount Autana, which is on the border of Venezuela and Colombia. When there was a quarter of the way to the top, we turned back.

- Why?

The water has run out. You can't survive without it. The heat is about forty, the rock is like a hot frying pan. I jumped from the middle of the wall, calmed down, and a year later the guys came to conquer Autana again. So the Indians took two prisoners! They were unhappy the last time.

- How?

They were photographed, filmed. The employees of the local travel agency who accompanied us rubbed the blizzard, encouraged, they say, every photo takes energy, part of the soul. Indians are naive, gullible. At the same time, they love money very much. They demanded a bribe. Then I managed to get out. And here they were serious. They trained their weapons, the shaman appeared.

- Feathers?

No, in a T-shirt, shorts. With amulets around her neck. Absolutely inadequate - either drunk or stoned. Said, "Roll up camp and get out to the river. We'll give up the prisoners when the ransom is paid. Ten thousand dollars."

- Where have you taken?

To the village, locked up in a hut. They escaped three days later.

- Dig it?

No. Christmas came, the whole village got drunk with joy. The Indian who was guarding them had gone away somewhere. The guys broke a couple of boards and drowned them in.

- Could you get lost?

Well no. About a kilometer to the river where the camp was. There is a boat.

PIGMIES

- Did you get along with the natives?

There was a story in Papua New Guinea. We walked for a week through the jungle to the foot of the mountains. The pygmies were carrying equipment and food. They gave us a cook who mastered two dozen words in English. Funny guy. We bought him a ladle and a colander. What to do with the ladle, I did not realize, I immediately hid it. But the colander was delighted. Stir them vermicelli in a saucepan, which we mainly ate. For pygmies, this is a delicacy.

- Really?

Roots and sweet potatoes, sweet potatoes - the whole diet. Pasta is too expensive for them, even more so rice. And so, stirring up, he took out the colander, to which something was stuck. I sneakily licked it up, put it back in the pan. A minute later, everything was repeated.

- And you?

When they noticed, the colander was taken away. Soon a new misfortune - the guy caught a cold, a runny nose. They walk around naked. From clothes - only kateka.

- What is it?

Wild pumpkin tube. It is put on the genital organ. If you are a respected member of the tribe, you can decorate the end of the kateka with bird feathers.

- How lovely.

Our cook is sitting, preparing dinner. Sniffing, snot like a river. There is nothing to wipe with. Stretching out a handkerchief - does not understand how to use it. Can't blow his nose. Tears off a bunch of grass, twists. Turns away from the pan, brushes away this disgrace, smeared on the face, and then cooks ... We decided to dress up the poor fellow. They gave out pants, a T-shirt, a jacket.

- Delighted?

On the contrary, he brushed it off. Barely persuaded. After supper I went to my camp, about fifty meters from us. Usually everything is peaceful with them, fun, songs until the morning. Suddenly a noise, a fight. It turned out that he is not the most respected member of the tribe - despite his knowledge of English and cooking skills. A scandal began. Say, he's dressed out of rank! In the morning he was naked again.

- And the things?

The pants and jacket were gone. Mike was put on by the leader. Moreover, they were given a specially small size - the pygmies are puny. And this one - with relief muscles, resembles a player from American football. He was not embarrassed that the shirt was bursting at the seams. He went on strike there.

- What did you want?

Money - what else? We say: "We have already paid" - "We must add. Otherwise we will not budge."

- And you?

They took it to the show. The radios were for communication between us. We switched on, we say: "Police! Indonesia!" The western part of the island belongs to the Indonesians. The Papuans are afraid of them. They believed it. Plus we gave them jackets with command stripes. And the leader, the main rebel, - a guitar. The incident was closed.

- Where does the guitar come from?

The guy from Moscow captured. I played around the campfire in the evenings. The leader came and listened. He really liked Russian songs. He himself did not work, he only gave orders to his own. Then he sat down on a hillock, held the guitar with his left hand, with his right hand on the strings: "Dr-r-market ..." And looked thoughtfully into the distance.

- At least once, someone from the expedition fell for the native girls?

God forbid! Yes, they are naked to the waist. But grimy, ugly. Outwardly - a cross between blacks and pygmies. True, I read that the pygmies from Papua New Guinea are an anthropologically unique nation. They are not like anyone else. Cannibalism flourished there until recently. Maybe they still eat each other. During civil strife.

- Have you met the rituals?

The wild boar party is held periodically. They catch it, bury it, make a fire over the carcass. They are seated in rank. First - the warriors, strong men. Their pieces are fatter. The leader cuts off, personally hands over to everyone. The women and snotty children who sit at the end are thrown last, like a dog a bone.

- Have you tasted it?

We were not offered. And I didn't want to. Papuans gobble themselves to the point of insanity, leaving nothing for tomorrow. Until everything is eaten, they do not disperse.

- The ugliest thing that you have eaten in your life?

The worst is when the water runs out. Especially on high altitude where there is severe dehydration. Your mouth is dry so you can't swallow. You gnaw the snow, your throat starts to hurt, then a sore throat ... Horror!

- And yet - have you tried something authentic?

On expeditions, food is standard. Light sublimates, no exotic. It is in the restaurant that you can come off. Once in Southeast Asia I ordered grasshoppers fried in batter, some kind of cockroach insects. Did not like.

- Apart from the crater of the volcano - the most stinking point on Earth?

India. The land of smell. In the mountains, it’s normal, but below the disgusting mixture hits the nose - dirt, unwashed bodies, spices. Unsanitary conditions are such that a squeamish person will go crazy.

- What surprised the polarized Canada?

2002-th, expedition to the island of Baffin's Land. The mountains are not high, they grow directly from the ocean. The drop in the wall part is one and a half kilometers. The most difficult mountaineering ascent.

- Who lives there? Eskimos?

Inuit! The Eskimo in those parts is a dirty curse! Worse than calling an African American a Negro! I was amazed at how polar settlements are arranged in Canada. The shops have it all, including fresh strawberries. Fast internet. For a wedding from the state, the newlyweds are given a snowmobile.

- Is he the main means of transportation?

No, they drive pick-up trucks that park to power outlets. They stick out of all the houses. A spiral is installed on the machine near the starter. Plugged in - the engine is always warm ... Alcohol is sold once a week - on Friday afternoon. By evening, the whole village gets drunk and lies in a snowdrift.

- A familiar state?

I'm not an ascetic, but I stopped loving strong drinks for a long time. Prefer dry wine... I often train in Europe, there it is everywhere.

Konyukhov

- Did you talk to Konyukhov?

I even visited his expeditions. About ten years ago, he participated in the creation of extreme programs on television, traveled with Konyukhov as a cameraman. Fedor set a speed record, crossed the Atlantic on a catamaran.

- Is he a showman?

Doesn't look like Urgant. But some of his projects are mostly PR. I'm okay with Fedor. Imagine a standard ruler. On the left end it says "PR", on the right - "sport". The closer you are to one part, the further from the other. However, any sailing with a limited crew is an extreme thing.

- Did Konyukhov ask you about something?

I didn't ask any questions at all. He is not a curious person, he is completely immersed in himself. Reading his book, it seems that Fedor is fixated on religion, almost a holy hermit. But in ordinary life, this is not striking. When we got into a storm, I was pleasantly surprised at how clearly and confidently Konyukhov behaved. Apparently a professional sailor. It was of little use to me. Although he entrusted me with the winches. Spun when the sails changed.

- Have you crossed paths with Felix Baumgartner?

Both represent Red Bull - but so far it has not happened.

- What did you think when in 2012 he made a record jump from the stratosphere?

The history of jumping from the stratosphere is rich and tragic. Ours have been practicing since the 50s. Someone died due to the depressurization of the spacesuit when the rocking cockpit broke through the glass. Someone had an icy latch, a helmet jammed - and suffocated. To avoid fatal consequences, everything must be foreseen. But from the point of view of parachuting technique, Baumgartner's jump is nothing special.

- How would you react if you were offered to jump from the stratosphere?

I agreed. But I am more attracted to the sports component. And here everything rests solely on technical capabilities - insanely expensive.

- How much money did it take?

Many. A unique spacesuit, capsule ... Unfortunately, we have lost the technology of gel launches. If in the USSR, at least in the stratosphere, gel balloons were launched, now we, in principle, do not have this. Only in France and the United States, where Baumgartner worked.

- What question would you ask him at a meeting? You are not Konyukhov.

Baumgartner has never been a professional skydiver. I have a completely different level of experience. In this sense, there is nothing to ask him about. But it would be interesting to chat about life.

Baumgartner has two tattoos: Born To Fly and 502, a number he received from the American Basejump Federation. Do you have any tattoos?

None. Since childhood they have been associated with prison. And what to fill? Everest full back? A familiar skier made an unsuccessful performance at the Games in Sochi. So on the bicep I pinned the Olympic rings with one unopened one.

- Funny.

I seriously thought about getting a tattoo in Florida. Moved there in the 90s to train all year round... In Russia, parachuting is an expensive pleasure. In the States, it is more accessible, and accordingly, the get-together is simpler. Hippie guys with long hair, earrings, stupid Born to Fly tattoos. I constantly talked with them, I decided to keep up. I went to tattoo parlors, leafed through catalogs.

- What were the options?

I myself did not understand what I wanted. Tiger on your shoulder? It's not that powerful. It will look ridiculous. He limited himself to piercing his ear. A tattoo for life, but pulled out an earring and forgot. After that he immediately won the X-games. What was cooler than gold medal world championship! Yeah, I think the earring attracts luck. Since then I have not taken pictures.

- Are there points on the map where you have not been, but are you dreaming of visiting?

For example, Alaska. I would like to return to Papua New Guinea. Not long enough in the mountains of Ecuador and Peru. In the summer I am just planning to break out there.

- It is clear that you do not bring magnets from your trips. And what?

Why? The fridge magnet is a cute tradition. Before that, there were mugs, plates. In Africa, I bought ebony figurines of animals. From Papua New Guinea I brought a kateka with feathers. Not by rank.

- Someone took it - as a sign of respect?

What do you! I wouldn't touch such a person. The katekas are sold there in souvenir shops. A gorgeous gift for friends.

- What do you read on expeditions?

I have three e-books, but I haven’t accustomed myself to them. Only good old paper. In travels, detective stories about Fandorin and Pelagia are great. Now I discovered a new Akunin. His cycle "History of the Russian State" is brilliant! Since childhood I have been fond of this topic. If Lev Gumilyov writes about the Tatar-Mongol yoke in such a way that you struggle, then Akunin expresses it in a juicy, accessible language. Recently he has lost interest in fiction. I don't perceive fantasy as a genre. But suddenly he became a fan of "Game of Thrones".

- Are you talking about the book?

About the film. Due to a fractured hip, he did not go anywhere for several months and became hooked on American TV shows. Today they are shot with better quality than full-length footage.

- Caught yourself thinking that with age you are calmer about things that should cheer you up?

You will not get used to the base jumps at all - there are always new conditions, well-being. It took two years to prepare for the project on Everest. I used to go to bed and remember where I was going. From excitement I could not sleep until morning. Then r-times - and you embody it! Of course it invigorates! An explosion of emotions!

- When do you realize that you are already 51?

I don't feel age. Worries that sores are piling up. The older, the more it takes to recover. I'm not going to change my lifestyle yet. But if intrinsic motivation disappears or the injuries finish off, I'll finish. It is not scary. I take it for granted.

- The soul will not ask for adrenaline?

Adrenaline has nothing to do with it! I am a categorical opponent of this theory! Yes, it excites the blood when you are very worried or the instinct of self-preservation is triggered. But for me this is a familiar feeling for a long time. I'm not jumping for them.

“Many admire your courage. Whose are you?

There have never been any idols. And courage is an abstract concept. There are simply things that are mesmerizing. Let's say kayaking from waterfalls. Or surfing. It does not fit in my head how a person rides in a "pipe", inside a giant swirling wave ?! In Florida, I tried to master board riding, I was convinced how difficult it is.

- Would you like to try kayaking from the waterfall?

No. To each his own.

The extreme jumped in a special air suit. With its help, you can control air currents and fly several tens of kilometers along the ridge. On account of Valery Rozov -.

It was in the Himalayas that he jumped for the first time in a wing suit. Therefore, apparently, he had no doubt that this time too, there would be no problems. A person who cannot imagine himself without extreme sports decided to take a new height - almost 7000 meters. What exactly went wrong is not yet known exactly. But according to one of the versions, because of the strong wind, the flight trajectory suddenly changed, and.

Vadim Niyazov, Main coach Russian national team parachuting: “Of course, after hitting the object, there was no chance to survive and escape, especially in the highlands, where there were more than 5-6 thousand meters. But until the very last moment we believed that Valera would come back after all. "

Remembering the training, Vadim Niyazov says: Valery always strove for new heights, which were higher each time, and the flights were more difficult. What is his famous jump into the active funnel of the volcano? He was the first to do this at all. Valery Rozov miraculously survived after trying to jump from a high antenna in France. He was severely electrocuted, and the basejumper took several months to recover. But as soon as I got to my feet, I went again for the thrill. A month before the death of Roses.

The body of the athlete has already been brought to Kathmandu.

Vladimir Melnikov, Head of the Consular Section of the Russian Embassy in Nepal: “At the moment, all documents are being processed for sending the body to Russia. The body will be sent either tonight or tomorrow, depending on how quickly we get all the inquiries. "

Valery Rozov's wife has already gone to Nepal. The funeral of the famous basejumper, who has three children, will take place in Moscow.

Details - in the plot of the program "Emergency".

I didn't think I would have to explain this, but the reaction of some readers of the publication in which I work to publications about Valery Rozov and Valdis Pelsh's proposal to name a street in Zelenograd after Rozov, plunged me into a state of unpleasant surprise. Valery Rozov was not just "some kind of extreme", as some Internet users decided for some reason. He was professional athlete top-class, the author of world records, the absolute leader in the business he was engaged in. Today, my article was published on the Zelenograd Infoportal, in which I told what the greatness of Rozov was, compared him with Lionel Messi and Usain Bolt, and explained that he did useful (this question was also asked by readers) not for the country - for humanity. Full text of the article under the cut.

To begin with, a few words in defense of Valdis Pelsh from those who did not understand where and under what circumstances he took his initiative about Rozova Street. The TV presenter did not advertise on the death famous athlete as those who read nothing but headlines have decided. He expressed his proposal at the farewell ceremony with Valery Rozov, whom he knew personally, in the presence of relatives and friends of Valery and other people who were not indifferent to him. I expressed this idea (publicly) to Alexei Mikhalchenkov, an official and a person who was also familiar with Rozov. Mikhalchenkov made it clear that he approved of the idea. For now, that's it. The continuation of the story should be expected no sooner than in ten years - this is exactly how much, according to the law, must pass after the death of a person so that his name can be assigned to a street or organization.
The question of how to specifically immortalize the name of Rozov - in the name of the street (new nameless passages, judging by the pace of construction, in Zelenograd in the foreseeable future there will be a lot), school, sports center, sports club, tournament, or, perhaps, by hanging a memorial plaque - still for sure will be the subject of discussion. But even now the reaction of those who defiantly asks: "What did Rozov do to name some city object in his honor?"

Valery Rozov after jumping from Kilimanjaro

The tradition of mapping the names of outstanding athletes exists all over the world. V different cities America and Europe can be found on the streets of Michael Phelps, Roger Federer, Lionel Messi, Wayne Gretzky ... On the island of Madeira, the small homeland of Cristiano Ronaldo, a whole airport was renamed in his honor. It is easy to see that all of these people are not only well now, many of them still continue sports career... In Canadian Vancouver, there is Malkin Avenue, a street named after the 31-year-old Russian hockey player Yevgeny Malkin. Yes, yes, not in Evgeny's native Magnitogorsk, but in Vancouver.
In our country, we often hear calls for patriotism, for import substitution (not only in production, but in the cultural and ideological spheres), to know our history, be proud of our heroes, and appreciate outstanding compatriots. But when it comes down to it, sometimes it turns out that the achievements of our fellow countrymen are more highly valued abroad than at home. And now I'm not talking about Malkin, but about Rozov.

Valery Rozov's lecture at the TED conference, April 2016

Valery Rozov was not just "some kind of extreme", as some Internet users decided for some reason. He was a top-class professional athlete, the author of world records, an absolute leader (and even one of the founders) in the business he was engaged in. He combined mountaineering and parachuting of the highest achievements and, in terms of his unrivaledness in his field, he can be put on a par with such world stars as Lionel Messi or Usain Bolt. Actually, Rozov himself was a world star - he gave interviews on the BBC, had fans in different countries ah, videos of his incredible jumps have garnered millions of views. Of course, in terms of popularity, it was difficult to compare him with Messi or Bolt - Rozov's entrance was not besieged by fans and he could afford, like an ordinary citizen of Zelenograd, to walk with his family around the city or go to the store - but for people interested in mountaineering, parachuting, base jumping Rozov was an absolute legend, and even the media working in a news format, which imply a dry transmission of factual information - without personal assessments and colorful epithets - boldly added the definition of "legendary base jumper" to his name.

What Rozov was doing was a dangerous business. To some it seemed crazy, an unjustified risk. The question of the usefulness of this lesson at first glance is perplexing. But only because this question is formulated from the standpoint of rationality. And many things (someone will even say - all the most important in life) do not have and cannot have a rational explanation. Irrationality is in human nature, and this makes us different from ants.
At all times, people have admired those who expanded our understanding of boundaries. human capabilities... Those who made them dream, strive and believe in the impossible. Probably, this is partly the secret of the popularity of any outstanding athlete - to be able to do something that others cannot. This did not apply to Rozov in part, but one hundred percent, because he practically literally learned to fly. Performing his record jump from a height of 7,700 meters in the Himalayas (how long will it take before this record is broken, given that the previous world achievement also belonged to Rozov?), the athlete flew three and a half kilometers horizontally and more than one and a half kilometers vertically, spending one and a half minutes in free fall and developing a speed of up to 200 km / h. This required serious training, incredible endurance, and the ability to calculate risks.

Video about Rozov's expedition with a record jump in the history of base jumping, October 2016

Rozov did what no one else in the world could do, stood at the peak of technical progress (or you can even say that he helped him - see the above recording of one of Valery's lectures, in which he talks about how base jumpers set themselves to serve new technologies), was an idol for those who chose sports, not parties and discos, showed us the beauty of our planet, inspired by his example of living for the sake of dreams, motivated us to achieve great goals. And he will continue to do this further, although he is no longer with us. But how long and how much depends on how we will dispose of the legacy that Valery Rozov left us, and perpetuate the memory of him. Rozov Street is not needed by his loved ones, not by Valdis Pelsh and not by Alexei Mikhalchenkov. We need it ourselves.

Valery Rozov
Born on December 26, 1964 in Gorky (Nizhny Novgorod).
He graduated from MIET in 1988 and has lived in Zelenograd ever since.
Master of Sports in mountaineering, which he has been practicing since the age of 18. Multiple winner and medalist of the USSR and Russian mountaineering championships. He completed more than 50 ascents of the 5th "B" and 6th categories. Climbed to the highest peaks of Europe, Africa, South America and Oceania.
Honored Master of Sports in parachuting. He made his first jump in 1993. In total, he has more than 11 thousand jumps on his account. Two-time world champion, European champion, multiple champion Russia, winner of the World Cup in parachuting. Champion and silver medalist of X-games in sky surfing, silver medalist of the World Aviation Games. Participant of the world record (the largest parachute formation - 400 people) in parachuting.
Since the 90s he has been practicing base jumping. He is considered one of the founders of base climbing - jumping in a wing suit and parachute from mountain peaks and slopes. Made over 1,500 base jumps. Author set in 2016

A photo of the last jump of the Russian climber and base jumper Valery Rozov has appeared on the Internet. A snapshot on your page in Facebook published by Sergey Kovalev, leader of the expedition, of which he was deceased athlete

“Valera and Jean Noel ascended the summit on November 10 at noon and at three o'clock in the afternoon were already in the camp at an altitude of 6000 meters. Valera wanted to make the second jump, and all the equipment for the jump was brought to the second camp in advance. Probably, experts will be able to answer the question of what caused the tragedy on November 11. I just don't get it all right in my head", - wrote Kovalev.

Rozov's death became known on November 11; The 52-year-old extreme died during a wing jump from Mount Ama Dablam in the Himalayas.

Valery Rozov - two-time champion world and record holder in parachuting, winner of the European Championship and the World Cup in mountaineering. In October 2016, he broke the world record for the height of a base jump, starting at 7,700 meters above sea level from the Himalayan summit on the border of China and Nepal.

Valery Rozov is also known far beyond the world of sports. One of the strongest base jumpers, twice world champion, European champion, X-Games champion, multiple world record holder. He has more than 11,000 parachute and more than 1,500 base jumps, unique and unrepeated record jumps from the highest points of the planet, including the highest base jump from 7700 meters in the Himalayas from the top of Cho Oyu.

Tireless in his desire to conquer all new heights, set himself more and more challenging tasks... An eternal dreamer and a first-class professional who knew how to charge everyone around with his energy and inspired many.

To say that Valery Rozov's contribution to parachuting and base jumping is enormous is like saying nothing. He became a legend during his lifetime. And this will be remembered forever.

From 1994 to 1996 Valera Rozov was a member of the “7 Summits” project, within the framework of which he climbed Elbrus, Mont Blanc, Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro and the Pyramid Carstens peak

In 1998, in the States, he became the X-Games skysurfing champion

In 1999 and 2003 he became the world champion in parachuting in the discipline of skysurfing

In 2004, Rozov jumped from the summit of Amin-Brakk in Pakistan (5800 meters), the ascent of which took 22 days

In 2007-2008. climbed and was the first to jump from the Cerro Torre and Torres del Paine mountains in Patagonia (Argentina-Chile border)

In 2009, Valery became the first in the world to jump into the crater of the active Mutnovsky volcano in Kamchatka (3300 meters)

In 2012, Rozov became the first Russian in the world who managed to climb Mount Shivling in the Himalayas (6450 meters) and make a jump

In 2013, after two years of preparation and a three-week ascent, Valery Rozov made the highest jump in history from the northern summit of Everest, Chandze (7220 meters)

In 2015, Rozov was the first in the world to jump from the highest point in Africa - Mount Kilimanjaro (5460 meters)

In 2016, Valery sets another record - he makes the highest base-jump in the world from the top of Cho Oyu in the Himalayas (7700 meters)

In 2017, Valery Rozov became the first in the world to commit

In 2017, on November 3, he successfully jumped from the Ama Dablam wall in the Himmalayas (6200 meters)

And this is far from full list expeditions and achievements of Valery

On November 11, 2017, when trying to re-jump from Ama Dablam, Valery Rozov tragically died.

What Valery did as a base jumper can be judged from a video from one of his last campaigns.

December 20 - 40 days since the tragic death of one of the most famous Russian extreme sportsmen Valeria Rozova... On December 26, he would have turned 53. Close friends of the basejumper, at the request of "SE", told about him what no one knew.

Valery Rozov is a base jumping legend. He jumped into the crater of the active volcano Mutnovsky in Kamchatka, set a record for the height of a base jump after a three-week climb to the top of Cho-Oyu, overcame the Tatar Strait in a "wingsuit" ... And this is only a tiny part of his achievements. Valery made his last jump in his life 40 days ago from Mount Ama-Dablam in the Himalayas.

JUMP WITH PINK - A REASON FOR PRIDE FOR YOUR LIFE

The host of Channel One Anatoly Kuzichev is not a parachutist, but he has a lot in common with Rozov.

In the early 2000s, Valera and Maksim Malanchuk (a Russian base jumper who tragically died in the Caucasus Mountains in 2013. - Approx. "SE") had a small TV production studio. They have already been involved in various extreme projects, trying to convert their unique connections and skills into a successful way to make money. After some time, they agreed to make a small section about extreme in the morning program. Then we met. In 2002 the rubric grew into the program "My Crazy Friends". In it, we talked about my incredible friends - Rozov and Malanchuk, and about many other equally strange and amazing people. It was an extremely interesting job - we covered everything from kayaking to base jumping. And our guests were the best representatives of these, then exotic, completely unfamiliar sports. We also made a film in honor of the 50th anniversary of the first ascent of Chomolungma - "Everest is the best gift for the queen."

Once Malanchuk and Rozov presented me with a certificate for a parachute jump. I wanted to feel at least a drop of what these extreme sportsmen are experiencing. I even thought: "I know Rosov! Just jumping with him is already a reason for pride for the rest of your life!" But he didn’t dare. Firstly, I was afraid that the parachute would not open. Secondly, I decided that I would not be a parachute "skibam". "Skibams" are people, skiers, or snowboarders who race around the planet for the winter. From the Alps to the Himalayas, from there to the Andes. I was afraid that I would get carried away and would not be able to stop.

And although I did not jump, Valera expressed recognition to me in another area. He gave me a major compliment in my journalistic career. Creating plots, I have come up with his own thoughts and impressions dozens of times for him. He was almost never completely satisfied, he always edited my work. And once he said: "You know, this time you described better than me what I would like to say." I have never heard anything cooler in my life. Strongly inspiring when such incredible people, like Rozov, express their gratitude.

November. Himalayas. Photos of one of Valery Rozov's jumps, taken with his mobile phone during the last expedition of the legendary base jumper. Photo from the archive of the family of Valery Rozov

The president of the Russian Mountaineering Federation, Andrei Volkov, was also a close friend of Rozov. The former rector of the Skolkovo business school and doctor of technical sciences told how he remembers the legendary base jumper.

We met at the USSR mountaineering championship, - recalls Volkov. - We performed on the Free Korea wall. And we met in 2003 when I started parachute jumping. Imagine the difference between an honored master of sports in parachuting and a person who masters this type of activity. But Valera talked to me as an equal - no snobbery. And two years later we already jumped together and in 2005 participated in the country's record for a massive parachute jump. Now I have more than 150 ascents in 38 years and three hundred base jumps.

At one time I went with him on almost all trips. To Germany, Austria, Italy, Norway - where there are mountains and jumping walls. We read books together, watched movies, argued about the fate of our homeland. Usually, when we jumped together, Valera jumped first, and upon landing, he would give his commentary over the radio. Sometimes he said: "Andrey, I do not recommend"! It sounded like a law to me - I stopped even thinking about the jump. In this way, he took on a high responsibility - he assessed my condition, the complexity of the take-off point and weather conditions. By the way, when I was the rector of the Skolkovo business school, Valera was a popular speaker there. He talked about how people make decisions in extreme situations.

Just imagining a jump, any baser experiences fear. The athlete does not need to artificially bring himself to this state. But this is not panic, but the level of anxiety. In total, I made over 300 jumps. The first 20-30 cause real animal horror. Falling into emptiness is unnatural for a person. This is laid down at the level of psychophysiology. Even when I had 100-150 jumps, the sensors showed that at the moment of separation from the rock and opening the parachute, the pulse jumped. During the flight, you are like a bird. It is impossible to imagine it. But there is no euphoria - you are completely focused and collected. Condition, as before an important fight. And after the jump comes joy. It is for this pure happiness that everyone is jumping.

VALER JUMPING IS THE END OF OPPORTUNITY IN BASE

Once, - continues Anatoly Kuzichev. - We made a program about a base festival in Malaysia. Rozov and an even larger group of basers from different countries jumped from the famous Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. One baseser did not catch the air flow there. And the camera installed on the helmet recorded everything. And how he hit the house, and how then he flew head over heels. How then I got many fractures. But most importantly, he remained alive. Valera then calmly and in detail described what he did wrong, and what - exactly, which is why he remained alive. So - meant composure and composure. It is often necessary to explain that extreme people are not the people who rush into the mountains shouting: "Die, so with the music!" This is not at all about Rozov. First, Valera studied the place of landing, the place of take-off, the weather. The level of thoughtfulness is incredible. With even a drop of carelessness, the first jump would be the last. To waddle out is the worst thing that could be in his work. You need to motivate yourself. The slightest loss of mood could lead to collapse. Perhaps he felt it, but drove away the lack of motivation. Although Valera has been doing this all his life ...

On November 10, when the news of his death came, everyone was dumbfounded. I have lost a very close person. And he died where he had no equal. "How so?" - everybody asked a question. The answer to this complex issue Andrey Volkov has

I have two versions of why the tragedy happened, - he says. - First: jumping in high mountains is a rarity. Those capable of such extreme sports can be counted on the fingers of one hand. I think Rozov was tired after climbing a seven-thousander. For five days Valera was already high in the mountains. And at an altitude of more than six thousand meters, the body does not fully recover - it only expends strength over time. This could have influenced reactions and decision making. Although I have seen photographs and filming. I can say that the separation from the rock was regular and error-free.

The second version: pressure drops and highly rarefied air created an air gap. In ultra-high difficulty jump, this could play important role... To the "first shelf" 85 meters. Rozov himself called these jumps "uncompromising". In this case, you have no right to admit any inaccuracies. This is the edge of possibilities in BASE. This is done by a maximum of seven to eight people. There would be at least 600 meters of free vertical - you can even do a double somersault, but here there is no room for error! For Rozov the first time everything went well, and in the second jump there was an unfortunate misunderstanding. The subtle influence of altitude and cold air was tragic. Although he did not make any gross mistake.

Valery ROZOV. Photo from the archive of the family of Valery Rozov

IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO BE TOO CAREFUL ALL THE TIME

I once thought that Valera is an adult already, he is over 50, - says Anatoly Kuzichev. - At this age, athletes end up with a craft. In boxing, reaction and speed are not the same, in football - endurance. And in base jumping, the main skill is composure, the ability not to panic. This could be done for a long time. But you can't be too careful all the time. The more jumps, the greater the likelihood of negligence.

Once we were in Italy, we had to move up the mountain. Together with the film crew, we distributed things, and I had a difficult lot - to lug the tripod. Collected in the mountains by my mother and wife, I seemed to drag him for eternity. With some difficulty I crawled to the top, and then the director examined the panorama of the upcoming shooting and said that it is better to shoot handheld here. All the trip Valera later recalled to me: "Tolya, a tripod is not needed!" But then the guys gave me the USSR Mountaineer badge. I take care of him like the apple of my eye, because they wanted to do something pleasant - my heart squeezes from this.

I reproach myself that we have talked so little lately. Valera was absolutely extraordinary. He cannot be perceived as a reckless parachutist. He knew how to listen, it was always interesting to think with him. He had no ready-made stamps. If I was asked to draw an image of a real man, then there would be a large part of Rozov in this.

Valery ROZOV. Photo from the archive of the family of Valery Rozov

Rozov was a pioneer in sports

Valera expanded the concept of human capabilities, - says Andrei Volkov. - He was a pioneer in sports. It was a tester! Romantic not in relation to mountains, but to people, Rozov was an idealist. Valera jumped for the sake of the process! He just did it so well that jumping allowed him to earn money. He was driven by a thirst for exploration. He tried, experimented and spent a lot of time on it. He read a lot, did a lot of intellectual work. Valera was his own instructor and analyst. Laboratory man! There are very few athletes with such self-discipline. The base has been continually escalating in complexity. Rozov raised the bar at such a pace that everyone around could not stand it. We jumped a lot together, but at some point it became impossible to match.

The combination of the incongruous - idealism and prudence made him a creative person. He was creating something new. And he was devoted to one cause. He dedicated his life to this. Rozov, regardless of circumstances and points of view, moved in one direction. Few people are capable of this.

Rozov was very worried when other basers spoke about him unflatteringly. He was a leader, and such is always envied. Some have criticized Valera for messing with newbies like me. But we are all very different, rallied around him. In 2005, all these extraordinary people, his future friends, began to learn from Rozov. Valera was a super specimen, and we followed him. And Rozov spent hours explaining and answering any questions. This altruistic pedagogical practice of his is amazing. Although then it seemed natural to us. This is what I value more than any magnificent achievement. I started jumping at 43! This is crazy from an everyday point of view! Only a reliable and sincere person can encourage you to do this!

Valery ROZOV. Photo from the archive of the family of Valery Rozov

PAYMENT FOR A GREAT DEED

We loved to jump in Italy, - Volkov continues. - After landing, we passed a couple of Prosecco glasses. Valera loved him very much. And two years ago we jumped in France from the “Maglan” wall. They came off well, opened up, and then I made a mistake and ended up in high-voltage wires. They hung low above the ground, but I slipped between them, although the distance was just over a meter. I could burn out. But Valera said nothing. He smiled, shook his head and that's it. Another would have burst into a formidable tirade, and Rozov never remembered this leap again.

V last time we saw each other a couple of months before death. I had a course in the Himalayas. Valera called when I was already in Kathmandu. He asked if I would like to join his expedition, since I was acclimatized. I had to refuse - there was a lot of work, and I hadn’t jumped in a wing suit for a year and a half. Then I did not feel anything special in his voice, there were no premonitions. Valera was with his family, preparing for the jump, just trying out a new suit.

But it must be admitted that base has an end, just like mountaineering. Like everything else. Either you stop or you continue. Once you say: "I cannot reach, I cannot take the next height." And he, despite his age, at 52 did what, in principle, he could not do either at 40 or at 45. Yes, objectively they began to improve technical means... The costumes we jump in have gotten better. But this is just a rag! It will only work if you do everything right. Rozov shifted ideas about the maximum of human capabilities. But I don't think he was chasing death. Valera was aware of the risk of his business.

Once Rozov said: "My big dream is to stay alive, live to old age and see how children grow up." It turns out that it has not been fulfilled. He sacrificed a dream. Such is the payment for the great work in which he was engaged.