Current Score - Arctic 2 Us 0

Unfortunately, it is with significant disappointment that we have to write another update detailing bad news so soon after our decision not to attempt to ski to the Geographic North Pole due to the rapidly decreasing time-window. Having re-planned and repacked we departed Resolute Bay on Tuesday 8^thMarch headed for the Magnetic North pole. Despite achieving good daily mileage in an unforgiving environment and feeling both confident and strong, it was with huge disappointment that yesterday morning we had to make the impalpable decision to be extracted from the ice.

 

This decision was not taken lightly and was made because Jules had sustained cold injuries to his thumb and a number of fingers on his right hand.  Although not severe at this stage, if they had refrozen the consequences would have been very different.  Medical advice has been sought since we arrived back in Resolute Bay and confirmed that our initial treatment and the decision, due to concerns over the injury worsening, not to continue was supported.

 

This decision clearly and unfortunately signifies the end of any further activities inNorthern Canada for us this year.  Although the correct decision was made, the disappointment and dissatisfaction with our circumstances is presently hard to describe.

 

Our intention is now to return to the UK and start the process of planning and rescheduling another expedition to attempt to ski to the Geographic North Pole either in 2012 or 2013. 

 

We would like to sincerely thank-you for your support to date and hope that this support will continue in the future.

 

Matt and Jules