Web update from Zoe Hudson Updates on the web site went very quiet after we reached the Pole. The reason being that everyone from the Rookery flew straight up to Eureka to meet us coming back. Then, unfortunately the weather closed in, and as we were stranded at the Pole, so they were stuck at Eureka. It is very difficult to describe my feelings on reaching the Pole, the culmination of all the effort of Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta and Echo. Above all too, it was the culmination of two years' organisation and astonishingly hard work by Pen, Caroline, Mike, Geoff, Nobby, Mary, Serena and countless others who have helped us on our way. It was a mixture of elation and relief. The ICE GIRLS had done it. And we had done it for the back-up team and all of our supporters as well as for us. Suffice it to say it is unlike any other destination where there is something tangible to signify your arrival, whether it be a signpost or a landmark. But at the North Pole there is nothing. The only reason you know you are there is because the GPS tells you, it's very strange. Our North Pole was conveniently located right by a perfect landing strip, so after planting the flag, reciting the names of all the previous team members and singing "God Save the Queen" (what else?), we set up tent and waited and waited and waited...... In the end we were there for seven days before the plane could get to us, by which time we were down to 1/3 rations and very little food left. If the plane had not been able to land, it would have to have done a food drop. Rather an expensive way to have Penguin biscuits delivered! It was frustrating having to wait for the plane but it did give me time to realise what we had done - I still can't really believe it and I wonder if it will ever sink in. It has been the most wonderful, amazing experience, but it will be back down to earth with a bump now. One thing to look forward to, though - plotting the next expedition with the ICE GIRLS.
This is the final report from the McVItie's Penguin Polar Relay. Many thanks to all who have followed the expedition's progress through this web site and to those who have contributed, supported and particpated in the site.
Steve Chadwick, webmaster |