Polar Race
The Polar Race was a biennial race from Resolute, Nunavut in northern Canada to the Magnetic North Pole. Teams of two, three or four walk/ski 350 nautical miles (650 km) pulling their food and equipment on sleds. Although not unsupported, there were strict rules on the carrying of equipment, with only food, fuel and camera batteries permitted to be replenished at the three checkpoints along the route. This event should not be confused with the Polar Challenge, which was a different event taking a different route, and run by a different organisation.
In 1996, polar adventurers Jock Wishart and David Hempleman-Adams organised The Ultimate Challenge, in which they chose 10 arctic novices from over 500 applicants and successfully led them to the Magnetic North Pole. On the same trip, they made the first scientific measurements by magnetometer and theodolite for many years to determine the exact location of the Magnetic North Pole: 78°35.7′N 104°11.9′W / 78.5950°N 104.1983°W. This is the most recent certified position, although it has certainly moved since.
Following the success of the 1996 expedition, which proved that novices could be trained and equipped for a Polar expedition, the two men established The Polar Race. As of May 2011, 5 races have been run with 60 out of 61 competitors successfully reaching the Pole.
The first ever Polar Race was held in 2003, with four teams taking part. All four teams successfully reached the pole. The overall results were:
...
Wikipedia