# Marc Koska, January 31st 2014

Ben
Well done!  As you approach 100 days and more importantly the ‘last mile’ I wanted to ask you something which earlier in the journey possibly might have been inappropriate!  Is the lack of external heat sources a major dehumanising factor for you?  In the last 98 days, I have hugged my children and wife and AGA and coffee and tea mugs and sat by endless log fires.  And been to Tanzania and relished the African sun.
You rely on a small vicious stove no doubt to melt frozen water and heat food.  Not doubt it warms the tent and your fingers and dries socks?  Perhaps?  In a very efficient and vital way.  But most of the day you are creating your ‘heat’ internally.
Would you say absorbing heat from a fire or the sun, a fundamental human necessity from your current Polar position?  I don’t mean as a species and primary survival etc. But probably as a more spiritual necessity.  Would be interesting to know.  When you have time.
Again many congratulations.  Total heroes.
Marc

# Janet Stanley, January 31st 2014

Great going again guys, it must be very poignant to pass nearby ,where would have been the last camp of Captain Scott & One Ton depot. Stay safe ;)

# wonderwoman, January 31st 2014

Good question, Marc! Thank you for that. And Ben and Tarka; It gives us all followers many kinds of feelings, now that you are passing those historical points in the map and making a history of your own. God bless you.

# cifa, January 31st 2014

well done lads :) am still following all your footsteps :)
nearly there..
............
We only use 10% if our brain. imagine what we could accomplish if we used the other 60% :)
............

# Richard Pierce, January 31st 2014

Dear Ben & Tarka,

Good to have confirmation that you had some clear weather yesterday (I had hoped as much seeing you travelling on your old line on GE), and were able to have your moods lightened by that yellow orb.

Today will probably be a day of conflicting emotions for you as you pass the rough position of Scott’s final camp and think of what came to pass there in March 1912, as well as what will probably be elation at finally breaking new groundon the way back and walking your way into the history books for all time.

There will still be difficulties ahead, even when those far-off silhouettes come into view. Be strong, keep going and striving, and try to savour the last wilderness you march through.

Good luck, take care, and God speed.

R

# Offroading Home, January 31st 2014

The “hope” that now permeates your posts is contagious and we’re as relieved as you are to not read a post full of pain and anguish.  Now that you’ve picked up your cache - earlier than the “Saturday” that you previously spoke about - can you still not divulge where it was located?  You passed two former camps today - “officially” which one was it at? (24 or 23)  You made a “beeline” for camp 24 and, seemed to stop long enough at it to have retrieved a cache, but you also crossed right over camp 23 as well (even if it seemed like you didn’t take extra time in that GPS segment).  I’m sure you feel you have your reasons to have kept them close to your vest on the way out (even if others didn’t see it) are the reasons over now or do you still need to keep hush about it?

The “old Scott trip” that we found available on the web from their published coordinates is, as many of you know, found in the Google Earth Antarctica Resource File available free from this page: http://offroadinghome.blogspot.com/2014/01/scott-expedition-coming-home.html Your .trail today is about four miles west of the trail they created from Scott’s coordinates; HOWEVER, today you did pass the location given for the 17th of March, 1912 - the date given for Oates death. It was about 8 miles back. At your current average pace (1.89 miles per hour) you should pass the location where they found the bodies of Scott, Wilson and Bowers today (1/31/14). They died about the 30th of March 1912 about 8 miles northeast of where you are camped tonight (1/30-31/2014).

They didn’t survive the ordeal and you almost couldn’t, but did! Thanks in part to the, yes compulsive tediousness, of the only “blog posts” that existed at their time—their diaries. Not as full of “feelings and emotion” as you blogged that you would have liked; but, taking no less stamina for them to create than it did you and allowing those coming after enough specific detail to know what happened and why.  I’m sure you’re as grateful for what they recorded as the many who have come before you developing the trails, techniques and equipment that allowed you to succeed.

My hat will be doft and head bowed about 3 and half hours into your journey today when you pass their final resting place. [Assuming you keep the same schedule and speed today as you have this past week - it will be about 11 am GMT (4am MST)].

Cheers… to BOTH of your teams!

# CaninesCashews, January 31st 2014

Hi guys,

How wonderful to see those clear skies and know that the land is creeping ever closer.

I imagine it makes a massive difference to be able follow your 75 day old tracks. A bit less time concentrating on frame compasses might mean a bit more time to take in this amazing continent.

I don’t usually get ahead of myself on the blog but as the expedition reaches its last stages it is difficult not to.

I imagine today will be a strange one today, passing Scott’s camp and recognising the enormity of what you have achieved so far.

You will be forging new ground today – literally walking into history. Remember this experience is unique, only one team can be the ‘first’ to do something and you will be that team, the first to tread new ground following Scott’s route. A remarkable mix of emotions I imagine.

God Speed on the last few days boys.

Stay safe.
Gav

# John Brain, January 31st 2014

Truly a poignant moment, now that you are passing the point wher Scott and his companions perished. Nothing should undermine what you have accomplished, but at the same time it reminds us how great were the accomplishments of Scott, Amundsen and Shackleton, given what they achieved with the relatively primitive technology of a century ago.

Looking at your faces in the recent blogs, I cannot but comment that, notwithstanding the immense tiredness that both of you must feel, you both look remarkably well, compared to those pinched and weathered faces we see in photos of yesteryear.

# DJ - Offroading Home, January 31st 2014

As I write this it is 3:25 am MST (10:22 GMT) 1/31/2014. The last transmitted GPS coordinates (10:22 am GMT) show that Ben and Tarka will pass south-latitude of -79.761299 degrees in about 30 minutes (10:50 am GMT) - which is the approximate latitude where the bodies of Scott, Wilson and Bowers were found in 1912 about 6 miles east. They died about March 30th, 1912. Find Captain Robert Scott’s expedition trail, campsites and cache depots in the Google Earth Antarctic Resource File available free at: http://offroadinghome.blogspot.com/2014/01/scott-expedition-coming-home.html [Open the “Trails - Historical Expeditions” folder and click on “Scott’s 1912 Voyage.” His “outbound” track is in green and return trip in purple. Waypoint icons correspond to coordinates and dates given in journals. Click on any waypoint or track-line to see an explanation pop-up box.

If everything goes nominally, the next scheduled transmission of their trackpoint (11:22 am GMT) will show that they have crossed the red latitude line, drawn in the Google Earth file to indicated the point beyond which they will most likely be setting record.

# Darren Moore, January 31st 2014

LEGENDS!!!  See you when you’re back for a few laps of Richmond Park with the gang and a Full English Breakfast like what Mark Twight sent a picture of!!

Hang in there… almost done now…

Darren

# Mal Owen, January 31st 2014

This morning I opened my curtains, looked up to the sky and hey presto, whiteout, not a cloud in sight ! How I let my imagination wander. I suspect both yours and Tarka’s are at their height being so close to those invisible landmarks which began your dream so many years ago and have kept you pushing onwards for those 98 days. I can’t help but think you have had help in finding those old tracks of yours. My hubby’s birthday today 31/01/14…. In future years my thoughts will turn towards yourselves,recordbreakers, and Scott’s Polar Party at around 11am on that day.
It tried to snow here in the Midlands yesterday ... seems there is plenty up there just waiting to descend. It’s good to hear you’ve collected supplies and are in cheerful mood? Enjoy the extra provisions. It’s amazing what a little sunshine can do for the soul, it certainly keeps the SAD away and helps retain our humour. I’m cutting out all my clothes labels today to help with my weight loss and I’ve found a book for my new flat pack bookcase which I struggled to put together yesterday.

A Tribute to Scott’s 1800 by Miles Hugo

# Richard Pierce, January 31st 2014

At this moment, I believe Ben & Tarka are taking their steps into history, and passing the spot where Scott, Wilson and Bowers lay down for the last time.

I thought it appropriate to share this short film with historic images, and images I shot myself when I was out there in January 2008. And the music’s damn good, too. Maybe Andy should record it as an mp3 and send it to the boys.

http://youtu.be/xnMJv1NQJ2w

God Speed, B&T.

R

# David, January 31st 2014

A poignant day as oyu pass by the site of Scott’s final camp. You guys alone will understand the extremes of hardship and stamina displayed by Evans, Oates, Bowers, Wilson and Scott duing February and March 1912.
Your blog support is following your every mile as you head home. Stay safe and take great care
God speed

# Craig Aitchison, January 31st 2014

Good effort lads, well done on everything you’ve achieved so far. Truly inspirational!

# Colin Barton, January 31st 2014

Guys. Being so close to Scott’s last camp is pretty big I imagine and a moment to savour at the time and in the years to come as the bad bits of the expedition are no longer remembered but the good bits are more vivid. The outcome of Scott’s journey just shows how well you chaps are doing and the risks involved. Truly heroic whatever the century.

# Leo Houlding, January 31st 2014

F*** Yeah! You’re nearly there.
Getting worn out by your awesome blog.
Love it. well done.

Leo

# Judy in North Carolina, January 31st 2014

So very excited for you!  You have no idea how much it means to so many of us that do not officially know you yet now feel a strong connection to your journey.  Taking so much time to share your thoughts and feelings each day in tough conditions is extremely generous.  Thank you.  May you have a terrific day!

# Rosie Vidovix Unsworth, January 31st 2014

A big day today… So proud of you guys!

# Uncle Pete, January 31st 2014

Boys, such mixed emotions seeing you had a good run yesterday and now it is clear you have outreached Scott’s party. What a bitter sweet achievement but such is how history is made and remade. Well done and hope the rest goes safe and smooth and full of reflection. Now send these thoughts from 35degrees in Cape Town so in fact not much land between us! Best wishes.

# CaninesCashews, January 31st 2014

I know I have posted this image on FB and Twitter before, but it seems all the more poignant as the boys pass where Captain Scott, Doctor Wilson and Lieutenant Bowers made their last camp.

As the guys walk into the history books I am reminded that someone much cleverer than me said, ‘we are never proud when we are alone’.

Although I’m sure the guys have had times of loneliness on this expedition, I am equally sure there are thousands of people all over the world who have followed, commented, tweeted and blogged trying to ensure they never feel alone.

Those are the same people, who right now as Ben & Tarka pass this amazing milestone, are bursting with pride to have played a very small part in a magnificent adventure.

God speed for the last stretch.

Image here: pic.twitter.com/mhdQFq0sJ1

Gav

# Willie Hannah, January 31st 2014

Ben and Tarka, it is very impressive gentlemen, big day, great mileage and poignant times ahead.  May I add my tuppence to the previous book title suggestions (sounds like the start of a T-Shirt competition), ” The Long Haul - To the South Pole and Back”.  Be strong, Be safe, regards, Willie

# Intrepid, January 31st 2014

Before an idea emerges
The desire for being is already
Something

The possibility of what can be
Holds on to becoming
Alive

Sparked between dreams
In vision, a belief already seen
Possible

An expedition across a stark barren world
Where only snow white and islands of mountains
Exists

The journey of tracks
Destined for beyond the limits of what was
Here

A completion shared in spirit
Honoring those whose lives stayed
Forever

Two polar explorers, over 100 days
Toiled, surfing the edges of sled slogging exhaustion, endured
Together

Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere

# Quentin Brooksbank , January 31st 2014

FANTASTIC! Food glorious food! So close now Ben & Tarka, stay focused and save your reserves for those unexpected moments!
Q, of Anglesey’s Ring O’ Fire

# Matt, January 31st 2014

Great job guys. Everyday as I feel tired about the grind. I read your post and realize I have nothing to conplain about. Hang in there and stay safe.

# Intrepid, January 31st 2014

There’s something about this photo.  It has a really cool composition, the dark light tent shadow, a perfect hidden white orb, deep blue sky….. I really like it!!!! (who took it?)

I noticed your altitude is the lowest so far on the return… only 46 feet above the sea.

174 miles of skiing to go, 174 miles to go,
You ski some more, make tracks in the snow,
173 miles of skiing to go.
173 miles of skiing to go, 173 miles to go,
You ski some more, make tracks in the snow,
172 miles of skiing to go….

Go! Go! Go!

# Mark, January 31st 2014

A milestone day is always better than a millstone day.  ;)

Here’s my offbeat question.  I was watching a sports show and the commentator said, “Unless you’ve been in Antarctica, you’ve probably heard of Andrew Wiggins…” and proceeded to describe the young basketball phenom.  My immediate thought was that this was a theory that I could test.  So, gents, you’ve been in Antarctica for 3 months.  Have you heard of Mr. Wiggins? 

Now, before I fade into the background and resume lurking, please accept my congratulations and admiration for all you’ve accomplished.  It really is an amazing achievement so don’t let that get lost in the daily grind.

# Rebecca, January 31st 2014

I can’t take my eyes from that photo—with that glorious blue sky—and can’t help thinking that if Scott and his party had had such weather at that point in their journey, the story might have ended differently. But, as you said, they were traveling much later into the southern fall, and as similar as the two journeys are, so much is quite different. This is very big day, and our thoughts are with you as you make this milestone. And now, the final push. You’re nearly there! Let our comments be your tailwind….

# Phil Satoor, January 31st 2014

I think I’m right in saying that when you were walking south the sun was somewhere in front of you, whereas now you’re walking north it’s behind you.  My question is: does it make any difference to how well you can see the terrain ahead?  I’m thinking in particular of crevasses .

# Sheila England , January 31st 2014

I do think about the Scott expedition after reading your blog. I often think of the equipment available to them at the time, and the material their clothes were made of. Amazing. I know very little as I haven’t read the diaries as of yet, but want to. I remember seeing a BBC drama based on it, many years ago , and have never forgotten how it made me feel. I was so excited to see Scott’s diary at the British Library several years ago, and it was opened to his final entry. (I remember just staring at it, and thinking of his state of mind, and body, at that moment. )
Cheers guys; you are amazing.
Sheila
I am very

# bruce, January 31st 2014

Can you guys keep writing your daily posts even after the end of this journey for at least a couple of days more, I think it would be interesting to know what are the first things you did after finishing   and how did you feel about those….

# Helena, January 31st 2014

Thank you guys for sharing your feelings and thoughts. I think of Scott and the others a lot these days when you go through the place where they passed away.
I hope you make the whole journey without any consequences.

Still I have a question on you:  What do you dream at night? Do you have dreams? Are these only white and snowy or a mixture of your older memories? Just curious :-)

# Helena, January 31st 2014

Son asks father: “Daddy, when do the Indians paint their faces?”
“When they are going to struggle.”
“So beware of my mom, standing before a mirror and making up her face !”

# bee, January 31st 2014

Stepping into history,
your journey continues to amaze and inspire me.
Thank you.
May the sun continue to shine on you and your skis glide smoothly
as you complete these final days.
Stay safe and well.

# Heidi, February 1st 2014

“And here was the crux. This was the moment that mattered, not standing by the Pole having my photograph taken, but standing next to my friend, in a howling gale, miles away from anyone or anything. “Let’s put the tent up”, I said, “I’ve got an idea”.”  Resupply (Day 70)

Rereading the Day 70 post while waiting for a Day 99 post.  What you gentlemen have been enduring is unimaginable, and rereading it brings the same emotion it did the first time.  I am so grateful that you were clear-headed enough to think of your friend and to reach out to Andy.  I am thankful the Otter got to you, and in awe that the pilot was a trusted expedition partner.  It is such a heartfelt, earnest piece that really gives an intimate view of your struggles.  And now you are so close.  Praying for safe going these last few days.

# Gina, February 1st 2014

Truly, you guys are so close to the finish!  I ran my first (and only) marathon on the Ross Ice Shelf when working in Antarctica. What kept me motivated was the vision of the sea creatures under the ice, swimming and floating along with me, under foot, cheer leading. It has been fantastic to follow your journey. You have many humans cheering you on and I suspect those sea animals are pretty stoked for you too!

It must feel so incredible to experience the magic and awe of Antarctica that only a few have ventured.

# torsten richter, February 1st 2014

Being on the last camp, which must be very poignant. It is not at all contrary to bring enough Respect Scott and his men. So a power to have made during the Antarctic winter. They remain the heroes of the Antarctic.

# Mary-Walker Wright, February 4th 2014

Bless you both on this important journey.  It is truly a miraculous journey, and my family and I are cheering you on every difficult step.