Archive For 'May, 2011'
20 May 2011 at 14:29
As part of a major CSR initiative, Extreme World Races have teamed up with ‘Keep a Child Alive’ to race to the South Pole, and help bring vitally needed funds and awareness to this fantastic charity.
Keep a Child Alive (KCA) does more than just buy pills for those suffering from HIV and Aids, they provide essential nutrition, shelter, support and education to help ensure those pills are taken properly and effectively. KCA offers children, their families and entire communities a shoulder to lean on and a heart that beats for them.
- Alicia Keys host of the upcoming 2011 Black Ball
As part of their on-going fundraising activities KCA will be hosting their bi-annual Black Ball at London’s Roundhouse, June 15th. KCA’s Black Ball is a star-studded event where celebrity and philanthropy walk hand in hand. The evening celebrates the work of KCA while raising hopes, dreams and millions of pounds to help children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. Hosted by Alicia Keys and Mark Ronson, guests of the Black Ball London enjoy an intimate cocktail party, live auction and spectacular seated dinner with extraordinary performances by Alicia Keys and the world’s top recording artists. Throughout the years, Alicia has shared the Black Ball stage with Bono, Annie Lennox, David Bowie, Jay-Z, Gwen Stefani, Sade, Jennifer Hudson, Chris Martin, John Mayer, Justin Timberlake, Adele, Kasabian, Bryan Ferry and Usher,creating some of music history’s most magical moments.
For more information please contact: Ellie Milner (UK) T: +44(0)7801292553 E: ellie@keepachildalive.org
Or visit the charities website: http://keepachildalive.org/the-black-ball/
If you would like more information on how your organisation can help Keep a Child Alive reach the Geographic South Pole please contact our dedicated CSR Team on +44(0)207 225 6421 or email antonio@extremeworldraces.com
Posted in Extreme Headlines | South Pole | Extreme Races | No Comments
19 May 2011 at 12:20
Last month you may have read about the finale of this year’s epic Polar Challenge. In this series we discuss what it takes to get to the Pole!
The Norway training week at our specialist facility in Hjerkinn – appropriately called The Adventure Academy opened its doors to the 2011 Polar Challengers. Back in January 2011.
- In Pole their sights: The 2011 Polar Challenge competitors.
The mercury was read a cool -25c when the teams arrived but a warm welcome from the EWR staff made everyone feel at ease. The training week ahead would take these aspiring adventurers and turn them in to hardened Polar Explorers.
Starting with a series of classroom based lectures that cover everything from emergency procedures, frostbite, stoves to packing their pulks correctly. People from all walks of life with different levels of experience take part in our events but everyone must complete this week to be approved on any of our races. This is the most important week of the entire challenge.
This is supported by practical demonstrations and hands-on instructor led sessions. Of course we put their cross-country skiing through its paces as well!
All of this experience is then put to the test on a 3 day mini-expedition which culminates in the now infamous EWR tradition; the ice jump!
- Polar Challenge 2011 competitor Michael Gadd powers out of the water.
The mini expedition takes the teams through the mountainous valleys and across frozen lakes. In total the teams spent 3 days outside in the unforgiving Norwegian wilderness. This time is essential as it allows the teams to perfect their tent routines and develop the most essential skill that will see them through the toughest of conditions; teamwork.
Then the dreaded Ice Jump finale.
One by one they jumped in and one by one the managed to haul themselves out of the freezing waters into the bar!
Not compulsory but everyone takes part! The fear element is probably the hardest part to overcome. That and jumping in to near frozen water!
It was a tough week but a thoroughly enjoyable one. With all our teams safely through the Pole was firmly in their sights.
Posted in Extreme Headlines | Extreme Races | No Comments
19 May 2011 at 08:31
Get hands on with... Kite Skiing
Multi-Discipline Ultra-Marathon across the world’s oldest and deepest lake.
Supporting the launch of our exciting new race – this is the first instalment of our multi-discipline series. In this article we will be focussing on a mode of transportation that has the potential for extreme speeds. The Kite Ski.
Frozen lakes are the perfect arena for kite skiing. We can think of no better place in the world than Lake Baikal for this, infamous throughout Siberia for its punishing winds. The locals have over 30 names for these and more than often several more to describe their nuances! Travelling on skis with potential speeds of 30mph across metre thick ice could be the ultimate test of nerves.
- Kite-skiing on Lake Baikal
The vast expanse of black ice is an unsettling sight, like staring into the abyss – only to be broken by pressure ridges, ice boulders and rubble. This truly challenging surface is reminiscent of the sea ice found in the High Arctic – only replace the white with black…
To traverse these testing conditions using a kite ski, it goes without saying that you have previous experience of using one! One of the requirements for the race is that you can demonstrate a suitable level of experience, not only in Polar conditions, but with your preferred method of transportation. Also, it is worth bearing in mind that nature can have its own ideas and you must be prepared to travel by other means. This is what makes Lake Baikal a truly multi-discipline event.
Firstly, experience of using a power/ traction kite is a great start. Having experience of how to manage the handling of the kite in variable wind conditions and experience of the muscle groups at work is also an important consideration. Being propelled by wind is a different animal than being under one’s own steam. Kite surfing is a very similar discipline and many of the techniques are transferable to kite skiing. Kites, much like a sail, are designed to propel you in the right direction. With the proper technique and handling this can be achieved and you will be amazed by what is possible.
If you plan on the Black Ice Race being your first extreme cold event do not despair! If you have never experienced extreme cold but wish to participate in the first ever Black Ice Race then get in touch. The Adventure Academy was created with you in mind. Going through the same process of intense classroom and practical training as your Polar counterparts you will leave with the confidence to be self-sufficient and with the ability to withstand what nature can throw at you.
If you are looking at starting kite skiing there are some fantastic resources available on the internet:
http://www.kitesurfingschool.org/kiteskiing.htm - EWR are not responsible for content on external websites.
To be a good kite skier, you need to have a high level of both upper, lower body and left to right coordination and skill.
Agility and balance are required in order to turn and react quickly to changes in both board and wind direction. Strength, power and endurance are other essential physical components and skills needed.
Identifying, assessing and addressing the key physical components of kite skiing is necessary for anyone serious about taking their performance to the next level, whether it be from the beginner to the elite.
Is there a solution to the question of, "How do we train for this kind of sport?" Yes! Address these areas and train them in exercises that assimilate the real life activity.
Almost every action performed by a kite skier involves a balanced and controlled involvement of the upper body, lower body and core.
No single muscle is more dominant or stands out in kite skiing. Instead, there is a need to focus on training movements rather than individual muscles.
You can do this by training multiple body regions and training them for the role for which they are required i.e. strength, coordination power, balance and speed etc. Below is a great exercise to get you started:
- Image copyright Mensfitnessandmore.com
The Body Row Exercise
Muscle Groups Worked – Latissimus Dorsi, Rhomboids, Deltoids, Biceps, Core
Preparation
- Lie under bar so that the bar is at mid-sternum level.
- Activate core with drawing in and pelvic floor contraction.
- Choose appropriate grip (under or overhand).
Movement
- Perform row and lift body towards the bar.
- The bar should meet the mid-sternum.
- Lower slowly to full extension.
Benefits
- Integrated total body training with an emphasis on back and core – for strength and improved function in the pulling motion.
- Great exercise to teach the co-contraction of the core/hip/posterior shoulder girdle musculature to “pull” while stabilizing in the sagittal plane.
Avoid
- Retracting the scapula before pulling yourself up, it should be a smooth action through the scapulo-thoracic joint as you lift yourself towards the bar.
Next steps
In order to get the best out of your training make sure you continually adapt the exercise to keep your body challenged. Here are some ideas on progressions:
- Hand Positions – alternate your hand positions between palms facing you, and away from you, narrow and wide.
- Legs – try raising one leg, once this becomes easy, move it out to the side, making sure your hips stay square.
- Stability – place a swiss ball under your feet whilst performing the exercise, making sure the ball stays still. Once this becomes easy start integrating the above variations.
For any questions about the race or if you wish to speak with one of our experts, please call us on 0207 225 6420 or come along to the EWR Open Day on the 4th June where you can meet our Polar experts and get inspired to Achieve the Extraordinary!
Posted in Extreme Headlines | Siberian Ice Race | 2012. Lake Baikal | Extreme Races | Training | No Comments
15 May 2011 at 16:30
EWR Open Day 4th June 11.30pm
Four Pillars Hotel, Lake 6, Spine Road East, South Cerney, Gloucestershire, GL7 5FP
EWR has decided to open its doors and provide unprecedented access to the world of exploration! This event is expected to fill up quickly so please email info@extremeworldraces.com or call 01285 860440 to reserve your place at this unique event.
Fresh from the 2011 Polar Challenge you can speak with Tony Martin, Conrad Dickinson and Felicity Aston; world renown explorers with a wealth of knowledge to share and inspire. It will be a fun informative day and you can expect:
- Meet Extreme World Races’ pioneering founder, adventurer and entrepreneur, Tony Martin. Who is ready to take your questions through the day.
- Light refreshments and buffet lunch.
- EWR Gift Bag
- Any individual who attends the open day will receive a 5% discount off their race entry fee if you signup within 4 weeks!
Open Day Schedule:
- 12.00 -13.00 Polar Challenge
- 13.30 - 14.30 Centenary Race to the South Pole
- 14.30 - 15.30 Black Ice Race
- 15.30 Questions and Answers with Extreme World Races Survival Experts
Remember this event will fill up quickly so please email info@extremeworldraces.com or call 01285 860440 to reserve your place at this unique event.
For directions please call or use the map provided:
View Larger Map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | South Pole | North Pole | Siberian Ice Race | Extreme Races | No Comments
15 May 2011 at 09:32
For only £895 you can now experience something only members of the Royal Marines, celebrity adventurers, and our previous EWR race competitors have experienced the challenges of our Polar training.
However, Extreme World Races is now giving you the chance to train at our legendary Adventure Academy.
We're offering you a ‘once in a lifetime’ chance to join us at our ‘amazing’ Polar Training camp in Hjerkinn, Norway. This is your opportunity to work with our team of expert Polar instructors, take part in fantastic Polar training activities, and begin to realize those dreams of Polar exploration.
What could be better than a week in the cold?
The Academy will be running in Jan/ Feb 2012.
The package includes:
- Five full days of expert instruction by our experienced instructors
- Formal preparation lectures
- Mini overnight expedition and logistics support
- Full board and lodging
- Snow, wind, and tent: a perfect combination
Everything the Polar Adventurer needs
Expedition equipment supplied includes:
- Tents
- Skis and ski poles
- Stoves, pans, and fuel
- Food
- Pulks
The following are not included in the offer:
- Transport (plane and train) to Hjerkinn
- Personal clothing and footwear
- Personal insurances
- Rucksacks
Book your place now!
To experience this amazing offering, simply make your own way to Hjerkinn (EWR will let you know the best options), where we'll meet you at the train station and take you to the training camp for the week of your life!
- Your ice hole awaits
Get a sense of what the training week is like by reading Scott's daily reports from the recent January training camp at Hkerkinn.
To book your place on this very special event, call the EWR team on 01285 860440 and we'll talk you through your journey.
Tags: EWR Offers
Posted in Extreme Headlines | Extreme Races | Training | About EWR | No Comments
11 May 2011 at 11:17
Press Release. For Immediate Release.
THE EWR SCOTT/AMUNDSEN CENTENARY RACE TO THE SOUTH POLE
£60,000 Adventure of a Lifetime to Walk in the Footsteps of Britain’s Greatest Explorer
Extreme World Races (EWR) today announce the history-making holiday of a lifetime - 'The EWR Amundsen/Scott Centenary Race to the South Pole'.
14th December 2011, 100 years to the day since Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen beat Captain Robert Falcon Scott in their epic duel to the South Pole, you have the opportunity to secure a place in history.
Should you take up this challenge and apply for the EWR Centenary Race to the South Pole, expect to face immense hardships...
Negotiating multiple crevasses, crossing snow bridges and rise to over 3000 metres above sea level, face winds of up to 80mph and withstand temperatures as low as -40C: these are just a few of the challenges on offer in the ultimate test for any thrillseeker.
Set in the stunning landscape of the coldest, driest and highest deserts on earth, the EWR Centenary Race to the South Pole is inspired by the 100th Anniversary of the original Antarctic challenge between Captain Robert Falcon Scott and Roald Amundsen. Taking place for only the third time ever, the second race in 2009, filmed for the BBC’s “On Thin Ice” documentary series, saw history repeat itself as TV celebrity Ben Fogle and Olympian James Cracknell were narrowly defeated by the Norwegians.
What does it cost and what's on offer?
Making this a truly global event, competitors from all over the world are invited to participate. Each place on the EWR Centenary Race to the South Pole costs £60,000, which can be funded privately or via sponsorship. If successful, you will be put through your paces to ensure you are fully prepared for this epic undertaking. Extensive resources will be made available including;
– Counselling and support from some of the world's leading experts in extreme training
– Access Permit to Antarctica
– Extensive training in Arctic survival techniques specifically tailored to the wilderness environment
– Guidance on dealing with life-threatening hazards such as sleep deprivation, extreme terrain & severe frostbite
– Return flights from London Heathrow to Cape Town to the race start in Novo, Antarctica
– State-of-the-art Arctic race equipment from Sponsors Missing Link
– All accommodation and meals
How to take part in the EWR Centenary Race to the South Pole?
If you can demonstrate an excellent level of fitness, a determination to succeed and the spirit of an explorer, find out how you can enter a team or get involved individually by visiting www.extremeworldraces.com. Terms and conditions apply.
Tracking & Monitoring
All those who enter will be fitted with tracking devices and participants will be able to check in with friends and family via regular live satellite phone calls. All teams and individuals progress will be updated regularly onto the EWR website.
Tony Martin, Race Organiser and MD; “For any adventurer, this is the ultimate test. Having raced in extreme environments for the past 20 years, I know that entrants must not underestimate the mental strength needed to survive the conditions they will face in Antarctica.”
The race will be filmed for a documentary series with a major international broadcaster - full details to be announced in early 2011.
Tags: Centenary Race to the South Pole | South Pole Race |
Posted in 2011. Race to the Pole. Scott v Amundsen Centenary | Press Releases | No Comments
10 May 2011 at 17:24
EWR Polar Challenge 2011 - Independently verified as one of the most difficult endurance events ever created.
With the Polar Challenge 2011 now complete, this year has proven this tenfold and highlighted why this race, as a spectacle, is truly peerless: Out of the 5 teams that started only 2 teams went on to fully complete the challenge.
Team 'Chilled Out' and Team 'CSC' with Jill Brangan were able to complete the 320 nautical miles in often challenging conditions but one thing that never changed was their spirit. Racing from Truro Island; crossing Bathurst then on to the sea ice; past the Noice Peninsula to the 1996 Magnetic North Pole - all this takes a lot of courage. If you read the EWR race reports and listened to the daily diary reports, you would have heard the teams delight at receiving messages of support throughout the race.
This is not just a journey for those participating but an adventure that is shared throughout their communities, families and friends;
“We are delighted that Georgy, Jill and Tom put in such a magnificent effort on the Polar Challenge 2011. It will be something they will not forget for a long time. Thanks to all the team at EWR for keeping a close eye on the competitors; ensuring we always had every confidence in their wellbeing; and keeping the anxious relatives closely informed throughout. You run a particularly impressive organisation.”
Glyn Jones, father of Team CSC member Georgy Jones
Throughout the course of 2009/10 a variety of inspired men and women from across the world decided that this was their time, a chance to test their mettle at the top of the world. The events that lay in store for these adventurers were not wholly unexpected; they went in as prepared as you could possibly be. However, nothing can prepare you for the Arctic in all its breathtaking beauty and its’ uncompromising fury.
You have to go back as far as 2009 for some of our competitors to gain enough insight into how far they come...
EWR's ethos of providing ordinary people with the training, equipment, skill and opportunity to visit these spectacular places is the realisation of a life's ambition for most.
The first time the teams had a chance to meet was during an unexpectedly rainy weekend in Wales. Well maybe not that unexpected. It may have delayed The Open, sending hundreds of golfers scrambling for cover but our intrepid bunch were more than up to the task. This was their first taste of training and an indication of what was to come.
The GPS training weekend in the stunning Black Mountains is the first instalment of the lengthy preparation process. This of course, supplemented by a very differing set of race preparations for each of the teams. Not only do you need the physical and mental fortitude to withstand the rigours of Polar travel; you also need the confidence in your ability to use life-saving equipment such as a GPS.
The weekend for some was the first opportunity to eye up the competition. For others this was merely a chance to learn and experience something new. You have to remember that this area of Wales is a challenging landscape. Given the vertical climbs along the course it was no easy task but all made it through and found their way to the pub afterwards!
Then it was on to Norway..... Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Polar Challenge 2011 round-up, coming soon.
Posted in Extreme Headlines | The Human Races | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
07 May 2011 at 11:12
A huge congratulations to Team CSC and Jill Brangan who have now completed the 2011 Polar Challenge! They have finished in 2nd place behind team Chilled Out and can be immensely proud of their achievement!
Tom Clipston was immensely proud of the fact that their race to the Pole has raised $130,000 for the Children's Surgical Centre in Cambodia.
The team covered the remaining 17 nautical miles (30km) from the pole to the finish in excellent time to cross the finish line at 1920 (local time). Tom, Georgie and Jill who have been working together since CP1 have found the going tough but have braved all that the Arctic could throw at them. Inspired by reaching the Magnetic North Pole they continued on to the finish and are now eating, rejoicing and sleeping!
Everyone at EWR is extremely proud of the effort and determination demonstrated by this team.
To listen to their diary calls click the links below:
Team CSC Race Day 16
Jill Race Day 16
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
06 May 2011 at 11:45
They have done it Team CSC and Jill have made it to the magnetic North Pole and have put up their tent for a couple of hours of well earned rest! They have 30km left to the finish line and their aim is to do this as quickly and safely as their tired legs will carry them.
Jill Brangan described the area around the Pole as being 'like an alien landscape' with lots of pressure ridges forming a spectacular other-worldly place.
Jamie and Jack are enjoying their last moments on the ice and would like to extent all of their thanks to their supporters who have helped take them on this fantastic journey of a lifetime.
To listen to the days diary calls click the links below:
Team CSC Race Day 14
Team Chilled Out Race Day 14 Jack
Team Chilled Out Race Day 14 Jamie
Jill Race Day 14
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
05 May 2011 at 09:10
Day 14 of the race and Team CSC, our last remaining team on the ice have had another strong day covering 20 nautical miles and have reached the Noice Peninsula. This is the last major obstacle before reaching the Pole!
Boosted by the good luck messages they received from friends and family they are fully committed to triumphantly crossing the finish line.
The team have a few more hours on their feet before they tent up so we will keep you informed and post and diary calls as and when they arrive.
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
04 May 2011 at 11:58
Chilled Out team storm to victory!
It’s official, Team Chilled Out are the winners of the 2011 Polar Challenge winners! This incredible achievement was confirmed at 8.20am (GMT) today via satellite phone. Tired and elated the team are now sitting in their tent at the finish line working through a range of emotions but mostly working through their food stores!
For Jamie and Jack this was the realisation of a dream. Their training, preparation, team work and positive approach to the event has seen them battle through the changeable Arctic weather and across 320 nautical miles of snow and ice to the finish line. This was a superb team effort that has seen them finish first.
“We’re delighted to be here. It’s been hard work but [when we were] 2 miles from the finish line that raised our spirits and it was wonderful strolling across the finish line.” Jamie Chisholm
The friends have always maintained their composure throughout this epic adventure. They described this as ‘the adventure of a lifetime’ and it is something that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. They will take many positive memories from this journey and we are sure their friends and families will be proud of Jamie and Jack’s achievement.
All of the staff at EWR congratulate Jamie and Jack on their monumental achievement. The training team, who worked closely with the team in Norway, are proud to see the first of their teams home.
True to themselves they even took time to congratulate the teams who didn’t make it and offered their support to the teams still out on the ice. The only remaining team is CSC/ Blue Eyes.
They put in a tremendous effort today covering 21 nautical miles. Every step the team takes they draw closer and closer to the finish line. They remain strong and in good spirits. I’m sure Chilled Out will welcome the company!
To listen to the days diary calls click the links below:
Team CSC Race Day 13
Team Chilled Out Race Day 13
Jill Race Day 13
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
03 May 2011 at 09:38
Day 12 of the race and team Chilled Out have done it! They have stood at the Magnetic North Pole! To this brave team it was more than just a point on the map. It was the realisation of a dream for both Jamie and Jack. They have braved all that the Arctic could throw at them and now they have the finish line in sight!
Team CSC have made it in to CP2. Their wish for an Arctic spa was just a mirage. They did however, receive a bacon sandwich on arrival which raised their spirits tremendously. They expect to reach the Pole in 2 days and then 2 more to the finish.
To listen to the days diary calls click the links below:
Team CSC Race Day 12
Team Chilled Out Race Day 12
Jill Race Day 12
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
02 May 2011 at 12:37
Day 11 of the race and team Chilled Out are within approximately 7 nautical miles of the magnetic north pole. It was a good start to the day and after 17 hours on their skis they have decided to bed down for the evening. The winds increased steadily through the day and they sensibly decided to tent-up before the conditions became too harsh. They will reach the magnetic North Pole tomorrow and will have eyes on the finish.
Team CSC should reach CP2 later today and are looking forward to their bacon sandwich and a rest! Still going strong and their spirits are high as they are nearing the pole themselves.
To listen to the days diary calls click the links below:
Team CSC Race Day 11
Team Chilled Out Race Day 11
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
01 May 2011 at 12:39
Day 10 of the race and team Chilled Out are within approximately 30 nautical miles of the magnetic north pole. They made excellent progress today although the first 18nautical miles were quite challenging the remaining distance they covered was considerably easier with the improving weather conditions.
Team CSC are approximately 1.5 - 2 days from CP2 and are a little tired but going strong. The 12 hours rest at CP2 will be a welcome break for their team but they have their sights set firmly on the pole! Jill, who joined CSC at checkpoint 1 is looking forward to some flat ground and although the going is tough, is still in awe of the stunning scenery.
To listen to the days diary calls click the links below:
Team CSC Race Day 10
Team Chilled Out Race Day 10
Blue Eyes Race Day 10
Stay tuned for more updates from 2011 Polar Challenge here on extremeworldraces.com
View 2011 Polar Challenge.kmz in a larger map
Posted in Extreme Headlines | North Pole | 2011. Polar Challenge | Extreme Races | No Comments
