HATCHING A PLAN
In order to tell the story of the Ross Sea Party, Mark needed a team, a plan, and some background information to make this dream a reality.
The Team
The natural starting place was with one of the most experienced polar guides in the business, and an Antarctic expedition expert, Devon McDiarmid.
Devon has spent almost twenty-five seasons in Antarctica, guiding trips to the South Pole and leading expeditions for science, research and adventure safely in and out of some of the most dangerous and unpredictable conditions on earth. When Mark asked if he would lead another expedition, this time tracing a historic route? Devon was in.
Margaretha (Maggie) Flatland was next, and like Devon, Maggie is a trusted and experienced guide in Antarctica with nearly fifteen seasons under her belt. Growing up in the Hardanger region of Norway, Maggie is a natural expert on skis and in the outdoors, and she knows how to get things done.
Who better to help us document the journey than filmmaker Katie Cleary who has spent years telling compelling stories about nature, the environment and people accomplishing incredible things with National Geographic, Disney+ and others.
Christy and Thelton McMillian joined next to help with planning, business affairs and communications.
The Plan
How to gain access to Antarctica, how to get to (and down!) the Beardmore glacier, and how to get safely back out is our next challenge.
The permitting, logistics and expense of planning an expedition is no small feat, and the team knows this is an idea that can take years to achieve.
Where our starting point will be will determine what country or entity we need to work with to gain access, and what country we fly (or sail) from to get to the start line.
Search and rescue bonds can be a non-negotiable element, ensuring we have a plan B (or C or D) if something goes wrong.
Weather and conditions will impact how we choose to travel, and the route we take.
What equipment and how much food we’ll need to bring with us will all depend on how long we’re going to be on the ice, and if we need a resupply (aircraft via the South Pole, or possibly vehicles in other locations) or if we’ll be able to bring all the supplies with us on our own pulks (or sledges).
Here’s where we’ll rely heavily on Devon and Maggie’s experience and connections.
Background and History
Next up, Mark needs some inspiration. And where better to get it than from the incredible historical archives in Cambridge and with the Antarctic Heritage Trust.