Day 41; Really had a bad day.....

Day 41 22 December

Really had a bad/low morale day…


Position: S86.7014, W085.5313
Temperature: -15cto -18c
Weather: sunshine and visibility.
Distance; 20.2km 7hrs skiing



Today I was in pain all day, I’d ski for a minute or two and then have to go down on my knees to relieve the pain as it was so bad. It would register 7 out of 10 0n the pain scale. I should rest up for a few days, but that now, is not possible. We have to push forward.

Including our catch of food we will have 19 daily food packs left to get to the pole. We estimate that it
Will take us at the rate were going 18 including 1 days rest. So no room for storm days or rest for my back.


I’m not use to being weakened due to injury and up to then felt stronger then I have been on any of my 62 expeditions.

I called a team meeting today to see how everyone was feeling about the extra work load on them and to put all the options on the table for us reaching the pole.

Our plans and logistics so far have changed many times and it is this flexibility that will ensure our success.

We all agreed that we would push through to 88 deees without rest and this means we ski Christmas Day. We were hoping to have a special dinner prepared by Shaun and Jon. But this will now have to wait another few days until we reach within 2 degrees of the pole.


Lets get away from negative thoughts and tell you about today. I feel so privileged to be here, it truly is a fascinating place. I’m just blown away by everything about being our environment and the landscape.

It’s raw beauty, tranquility and of doing an expedition that has been done by less people then have been to space.

I’m tired and in pain so this is it for tonight. I hope tomorrow is better,