All teams reported good progress today as their systems become more refined. The learning curve can be steep in terms of camp set-up and breakdown, maximizing travel efficiency, maintaining good body temperature, etc. Typically, each day on the trail gets more efficient.
The Last Degree Ski Team reported in from 89° 23'920 N, 173° 20'938 E. They traveled for about 8 hours and made 10.5 nautical miles. It was fairly windy, 15 knots, and overcast in the morning. But the skies cleared in the afternoon and wind abated to some extent. Overnight they drifted North and the drift is continuing, even drifting 800 meters while they ate dinner! We've had experience where the drift was working against the teams ("nature's treadmill") and it is extremely frustrating. We hope their current luck continues.
The Chinese Ski Team called in from 89° 32'403 N, 177° 10'052 E. They traveled 5.74 nautical miles today. Again, reports of steady winds from the west, leaving everyone's left sides of their bodies quite chilly. The temperature was around -5° C. Their terrain was relatively flat with a few scattered pressure ridges and several leads to cross, presenting a bit of a challenge. Their travel day was longer than yesterday and they had longer stretches between breaks, allowing them to make more progress.
The Last Degree Dogsled/Ski Team reported their position as 89°16 N, 170°8 E. They're feeling very good about their progress especially after the slow going they had yesterday. They made 9 nautical miles and also had some northerly drift overnight. They again experienced a number of leads they had to cross. All are in good spirits.
Enjoy the audio updates below:
