It’s been 100 years since Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott raced to the South Pole.
2011-12 marks the 100 year anniversary of Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott’s arrival at the South Pole. Their heroic exploits captured the imagination of a generation and opened up the interior of Antarctica to the world.
Don’t miss out! This is a truly historic season and we’re going to celebrate. You can fly to the South Pole. Ski the Last Degree. Or join us to celebrate at Union Glacier Camp. Interest is high, so be sure to book early to guarantee your spot.
Roald Amundsen was the first person to reach the geographic South Pole on December 14, 1911. He forged a brand new route from the Bay of Whales on the Ross Ice Shelf via the Axel Heiberg Glacier, onto the Polar Plateau and the South Pole itself.
Robert Falcon Scott’s expedition started at Ross Island, where Shackleton had also started his expedition. Scott’s route took him across the Ross Ice Shelf, up the Beardmore Glacier and onto the South Pole. But they were too late, not reaching the Pole until January 17, 1912.
Amundsen had won the “race”. Scott’s team never really recovered from the disappointment and a combination of factors led to the entire Pole team dying before they reached “home” on Ross Island.