Solo North Pole 2008

From 07.03.2008 to 10.06.2008 - Status: abandoned

Hannah McKeand

Hannah McKeand has set herself the goal of becoming the first woman to succeed in covering the route between Ward Hunt and the North Pole (415 nautical miles) solo. The plucky Briton has also decided to attempt her trek entirely unaided with no external re-supplies.

To achieve her unprecedented aim, Hannah will have to haul all of the equipment and supplies she needs for her expedition aboard her sledge, from her drop-off point to the north of Ellesmere Island all the way to the geographic North Pole.

This particular route has been attempted on numerous occasions in recent years but remains one of the great challenges of Arctic polar adventuring. In actual fact, more people have succeeded in reaching the North Pole by departing from Cape Arktichewski in Siberia.

Anyone who follows the trials and tribulations of the great polar adventures will probably remember last year's exploits by British explorer Rosie Stancer. Rosie battled for weeks on end against adverse winds, the negative drift and chaotic conditions of the pack-ice before she was forced to abandon her trek after 84 days and 521 km.

In order to have as many cards stacked in her favour on this attempt, Hannah is also taking along a set of water-tight clothing that will enable her to cross open leads of water with greater ease and safety. In any event, one thing is sure: the young Briton is taking on a very dangerous challenge.

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Hannah McKeand website