Laconia Leafs Hat makes it to the South Pole!

2 Jan, 09 - 14:09     90.000S,15.106E

WE ARRIVED AT THE SOUTH POLE!

After 53 days of travel Tom davenport (son Ryan – Laconia Leafs 2008-2009) arrives at South Pole!

From his journal posted on www.fromend2end.net  “it is difficult to describe the feelings felt when we arrived at the silver ball on a candy-striped pole, which marks the ceremonial site of 90 degrees South. What may possibly top it was yesterday when we first spied the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station from some 8 miles out.  After visiting the ceremonial pole we then moved over to the Actual 90 degree mark, which has to be re-marked annually due to the shifting of the ice cap. Photos have also been done including flags from the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada, the Colon Cancer Alliance, the IFC/World Bank Doing Business...and of course Canada. This was followed by hot coffee in the base and a wonderful tour of this ultra-modern facility. More on this in the coming days...especially since we just learned we will be cooling our heels here for 2-3 days while we await clear weather for the plane to come in with our kite-skiing gear.

Best from 90 degrees SOUTH.”

The Mission:

 To make a round trip expedition from Hercules Inlet to the South Pole – trekking to the Pole on skis and returning on skis assisted by kite.

 To raise general public awareness of colorectal cancer and the importance of screening.

Team Member: Tom Davenport

I was born in the United Kingdom, but lived in Canada from the age of one. Growing up in London, Ontario I always loved all sports related to winter – ice hockey, winter camping, downhill and cross-country skiing. I seem to have always been a traveler - my professional life has largely been in international development and I have lived for extended times in West Africa and Indochina. In December, 2006, at the age of 46, I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. In the following ten months, I had chemo-radiation treatment, surgery, another round of chemo and minor surgery. And six months ago I was given the go-ahead to undertake the expedition. To prepare for this expedition I have been up to the Arctic three times, as well as participated in the Canadian Ski Marathon earlier this year. I live in Cabin John, Maryland with my wonderful and supportive wife Gail, and our hockey-loving 19 year-old son, Ryan

Be sure to visit: www.fromend2end.net for more info!