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Dispatches: So, what's the plan? - Wednesday, 28th April 2004


Day's Statistics

Expedition & Environmental Statistics:
Position:87.34.3N 93.27.9E (view route map)
Daily distance:11.3 nm
Total distance:345.3 nm
Distance to go:561.5 nm
Travelling time:10hrs
Temperature:-15°C
Conditions:moderate east-north-easterly; huge frozen lead followed by rubble; clear and bright
view large image
view large image

As some of you know, 'Borneo', the temporary Russian airstrip near the Pole is closing soon. The last helicopter leaves the ice on the 5th of May. Does this mean I'll be stranded? Can I reach the Pole? Can I reach Canada?

No, yes and no. If/when I need picking up from the ice, it'll be via aeroplane from the Canadian side - we are chartering one of Kenn Borek's Twin Otters, which will fly out from Resolute Bay. I'm on track to reach the Pole in 10-12 day's time, and plan to carry on past the Pole towards Canada for as far as I can. A lot depends on the condition of the ice - not only for me but for the pilots, as they need a decent pan as a landing strip. At present, the end of May is the latest they are happy to fly.

Realistically, I'm now too late in the season to reach Canada on foot, thanks to a delayed start from Russia and some of the worst ice and weather conditions on record. If all had gone according to plan, I would have been at the Pole today, with the entire month of May to reach Canada. As they say, the first casualty of war is always the plan...

Today is dedicated to a few Norwegians (as I guess there are some reading this!) - Rune Gjeldnes & Torry Larsen for the inspiration, Borge Ousland for the inspiration, assistance & hospitality, Alex at Acapulka for the best sledge ever made, 'Captain' Camilla, Asnes skis, Swix ski poles, everyone at the Finse 1222 Hotel and the landlord (I've forgotten his name!) of the pub at Oslo station (he let me store my sledge there overnight!)

A big hi to everyone leaving messages on the website - as I've said before, I can't see them and rely on a few being passed on in my daily phone calls, but a few names are becoming familiar! Thank you all.

Visitor Comments


# The Plan

Whatever plans you have to make for the rest of your adventure will be determined byt the weather & conditions. You are incredible. We have had great pleasure in reading of your trip. Our prayers are with you for a safe arrival in canada. Yes you are famous already.

By Dorothy on Friday, 30 April - 12:23 pm -0700


# Still going with you

Hi Ben,
We are all still going with you as far as you can get!
xx

By tete on Thursday, 29 April - 02:28 pm -0700


# Funny

It's funny how i found this site. I was looking for more info about my IPAQ 2210 and i saw a link to your site. Now i visit this site every day. It is really impressive what you are doing. Thank you for taking us virtually with you.
P.S. I love you pix.

By Ivo Popov on Thursday, 29 April - 11:33 am -0700


# Hi you

Hi Ben,

I just wanted to send my love and tell you that I'm thinking about you.

I really hope that you reach the point where you're satisfied that you made it! We all think you accomplished something outstandingly amazing - something I certainly couldn't put into words.

Take care and enjoy every last second of this last leg.

Lots of love,

Abey xx

By Abey on Thursday, 29 April - 11:26 am -0700


# I've still got your jacket!!

Ben,

Nuff Respect!! I hope you weren't relying on your Rab jacket that i still have in my cupboard at home, sorry mate!

Been checking in and reading the reports, keep going...you are doing amazing things. Take care and hopefully I can return your jacket on your return!

Luke

By Luke Jarman on Thursday, 29 April - 10:00 am -0700


# Go for it Ben.

To most people a month long walk would seem impossible, you sound disappointed that's all the time you have left! To have achieved what you already have in the conditions you've suffered is astounding, to contemplate another month of it would be difficult for most to imagine.
Respect (and not in a Nike-clad bling stylee!) is due.
Will be driving 350 miles of East Anglias most bland countryside today, I'm jealous of your varied scenery.

Ken. (Superflid)

By Ken Powell on Thursday, 29 April - 06:54 am -0700


# Thank you!

Thank you for taking us along on your adventure, and what an adventure it is! To the North Pole! I'll be glad to get that dispatch! Melba in Texas

By Melba on Thursday, 29 April - 06:23 am -0700


# "The plan..."

Is it a metaphisical concept or is it just a piece of paper? It is you, the material Ben, that is important... and what you have done up to now and will still do. You have given flesh to a dream, and I don't know if it was in your plan to enlighten so many people with your feat, and to keep us all stuck to our computers daily to check how you are doing, but it is a great addenda! Sounds a bit soppy, but soppy with ice is good ;)

By Iria on Thursday, 29 April - 04:33 am -0700


# So be it

One does what one has to do in life.

Not accomplishing your goal in no way is a reflection on you, Ben. We all know you would make it if Mother Nature would cooperate. That's the most important unpredictable part of your adventure though. You've already proven yourself to be a person of honor and integrity, and I know you will accept whatever the outcome with the grace, dignity and humor you have exhibited throughout this journey that I have had the honor to follow along with you.

I'm still excited about the day you post the dispatch in which you write, "I'm at the Pole!" You will be in the small percentage of unique people who have gone there. Will you be the first person to get there alone? I don't know. Either way, it's such an accomplishment.

There's a part of me that will be glad when you're done - that means you're safe, back in England, with your friends and loved ones. No matter what, there's more adventures ahead for you, I have no doubt!

It is I who want to sincerely thank you, Ben. Reading your dispatches have been the high point in my day, and will continue to be until you're done.

Stay safe and press on to the Pole!

By Gwen on Thursday, 29 April - 03:10 am -0700


# Keep on going

I have read every message in real time and know you could have made it- you have the talent and the ambition. The point's proved. I wish you to be back safely on dry land before the ice goes to mush.

By mike keith on Thursday, 29 April - 02:15 am -0700


# Hi Ben

Sorry that you won't make Canada be being stuck on an ice floe in the middle of summer with no food is not a good idea and your need to get off while you can. That first hot shower will be sooooo nice!! I love the quote you have a the bottom of your page from Wayne Gretzky. I don't think Wayne would like the ice conditions where you are, for playing a pick up hockey game on. You are doing great!! Thanks to Jimmy and myself you are getting a bigger following in London, Canada everyday. Ski on BEN!!
Andy

By Andy Stokman on Wednesday, 28 April - 11:34 pm -0700


# Drive On

Ben- Although nature has not cooperated with you and may keep you from completing your entire crossing by foot/ski, You have accomplished more (mentally, physically and emotionally) in a short time than others have in a life. Not many people have taken on the challenges that God and nature is willing to throw at them like you have. Your an inspiration to all those that need inspiring. Keep up the good work and as always, take the path less traveled. "Drive on, it don't mean nothin." Johnny Cash
Jhynes,
Chicago

By Justin Hynes on Wednesday, 28 April - 10:57 pm -0700


# No, yes and no

That translates into "good, even better and what a shame, but there's always a next time". Hope springs eternal, and in anybody's book, the achievement thus far has been brilliant, and it's not over yet.....

Best wishes for all that is left to do.

James Dixon

By James Dixon on Wednesday, 28 April - 10:50 pm -0700


# Don't give up

Keep at it BEN.
We all think you great whatever.It is fantastic to log on and follow your adventure with you. a first for me and my family.and I am sure many others,a real focus for the day to log on and be with you in mind
The ice hasnt been kind to you.but you perserve.


Keep yomping ,we still rooting for ya!


Jessica (PH)

By jessie(Alfie aged 9) on Wednesday, 28 April - 09:43 pm -0700


# Next time.

As is said, "there's always next time". It seems your goal to reach Canada has changed, yet I'm sure the 'real' change is within you. This journey wasn't stupid or suicide, but real gutsy and brave. You have demonstrated your capacity to endure what most could not, and you have kept your wits about you. Revamping your plans comes with practicality, and common sense. I wish you well in whatever distance is finally covered. You are an inspiration and thank-you for letting me glimpse a little of your journey. Bravo Zulu.

By George Fudge on Wednesday, 28 April - 09:05 pm -0700


# Well...

All is not lost. I think that's the only thing I have to say today! It's not over until it's over and you have more adventure ahead. I know I'll be here everyday reading about it!

And about that air guitar...when you post it, I'm going to find a way to print it, and blow it up and hang it in my cube at the office. My hope is for one day to meet you on a speaking/book tour so you can autograph it for me! I look forward to that day! How will we be kept abreast of those plans, should you do such a tour? I can't miss it. I just can't. :-D

By Nikki on Wednesday, 28 April - 08:51 pm -0700


# You so smart.

Ben,
I'm glad to hear you've got your head on straight. I hope you get some great pans to end up your adventure well. The pole awaits you. And the great pans beyond.

I'll say a prayer for you today.

brian

By brian on Wednesday, 28 April - 07:59 pm -0700


# Adapt & Overcome

Hi, Ben
Due to unrelated issues - abnormally hot weather and irrascible allergies - I took a day off from work. Therefore, finding myself early in the Ben Saunder's Arctic Expedition Posting Pack. My best to you and your team, as a modified plan, will certainly lead to success. By the way, another great photograhy! Can't wait for the air guitar.
Best,
-Scot

By Scot Morrison on Wednesday, 28 April - 06:54 pm -0700


# You can bet on it.

We will be here till the end . Its been a wonderful trip and its not over yet.God Bless .Gloria.

By Gloria on Wednesday, 28 April - 06:53 pm -0700


# "The best-laid plans o' mice an' men. . .

Ben:
As Robert Burns said in Ode to a Mouse, "The best-laid plans o' mice an' men Gang aft agley (or go often astray)"

Ski Onward!
Cissy,
Texas

By Cissy on Wednesday, 28 April - 06:39 pm -0700


# Looking Back...

Looking back from the day it all started, you planned, you trained, you traveled, you held off, you finally started, we had some scary moments in and out everyday, waiting on you to send in a daily dispatch. The worst was when the system was haywire and you coudln't send in a dispatch at all. We read your thoughts, and send our prayers and warm our wishes to you all in hopes you never gave up. Did we ever say, Thank you more than once? Thank you for the ensight of the beauty of what the untouched is like, thank you for taking us with you on our journey, thank you for not expecting to much and for never giving up, which allowed us not to give up on you. You reached your goal, you landed and started, whether you make to the end or not and have to be picked up, you did it, you accomplished what you started, because you started. How many of us sit back and say WOW I wish I could that, well the truth is, you can with enough determination and strength you can do anything y our body will let you.

Thank you to Valeria for excepting us to have ensight with you and your family.

Much admiration to Mum for supporting you something alot of MUMS should learn from, raise and teach your children well let them grow in their own way and they will take with them all you have given. Sorry for being mushy, and philosophical!!!!! Good luck and watching and waiting for my PICS autographed for the children! Did you see the mailbox yet? I guess Santa didn't put it up yet....

You won't become famous, because you are FAMOUS in my book, you have done something only a few have started.

christy

By Christy on Wednesday, 28 April - 06:09 pm -0700


# First casualty or war

I always thought it was the truth that went first :)

By Pies on Wednesday, 28 April - 05:47 pm -0700

Dispatches Archive


The following dispatches are an archive spanning the 4-5 months that Ben spent prior to the expedition, the expedition itself, and the returning home period.


'Miracles will happen...'

'Miracles will happen...' - Monday, 26th April 2004

'...as we drift'. Rather apt lyrics from my Song of the Day, a sublime acoustic version of Seal's Crazy. The sun was making my tent so warm last night that I fell asleep with my hat off and my sleeping bag unzipped, but something unexpected woke ...read more

Pan-tastic!

Pan-tastic! - Tuesday, 27th April 2004

Bad news first: 1) the fabulous bit of drift north I experienced yesterday has fizzled out and once again I'm drifting south. 2) I was skiing so hard today that I only took one photograph - this rather odd shaped lead. I meant to take an air guitar ...read more

So, what's the plan?

So, what's the plan? - Wednesday, 28th April 2004

As some of you know, 'Borneo', the temporary Russian airstrip near the Pole is closing soon. The last helicopter leaves the ice on the 5th of May. Does this mean I'll be stranded? Can I reach the Pole? Can I reach Canada? No, yes and no. If/when ...

L'Enfer du Nord

L'Enfer du Nord - Thursday, 29th April 2004

'L'Enfer du Nord' - 'the Hell of the North' is the nickname for perhaps the world's toughest one day bike race - the infamous Paris-Roubaix. Part of the reason I'm telling you this is that a British rider, Roger Hammond came third this year - the ...read more

Crash landing

Crash landing - Friday, 30th April 2004

There is a degree of contention in the polar world over which route to the Pole is toughest - from Canada or from Russia. Some argue that the Russian route (despite being 100 miles further) is 'easier' because the drift is 'mostly north' and the ice ...read more

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“Everywhere is walking distance if you have the time.” - Steven Wright