Polar Bears are endangered and although we will not be surprised to see one, they really do not pose a threat to human in the majority of cases. They are typically curious and are at the top of the food chain where we are going so what have they got to fear? The issue is that we carry food, and a polar bear can apparently smell a seal more than 32 km (20 mi.) away (Domico, 1988). Although how they measured that I have no idea. We take the guns for obvious safety reasons but if they are used, it is normally to create a loud bang (special cartridges) that would persuade Mr Bear that we are not a seal - and our food makes loud noises!
At the shooting range we had a great time unloading cartridges against clays coming at a variety of velocities and angles and all thought we were becoming pretty good (I had the Olympics 2012 in my sights - excuse the pun). The guns were wonderful looking engraved pieces of highly polished wood and metal - certainly the object of someones care and attention. This was going to be a new hobby that we were taking to the pole! We then got given a few shots with the gun we are taking. With the introduction of "its been built by the Americans for a purpose - there is nothing to go wrong, the design has been about for a very long time but it works so we use them." we got given a long, heavy, pump action shot gun. The piece was certainly without any artistic engraving and was missing the fine lines of the classic Gentleman's shooting choice, but this was the Articulated Lorry of the shooting world.
After the feast I was ready for a lie down and a snooze but we were sent off in our teams for a bit of GPS and orienteering practice. Team you may ask? You will have to wait until my next blog (and as the snow has set in that will probably be tomorrow!). As a teaser, Jo, Lucy and I have been put together in the team as we all entered individually. We are already a good team and I have a good feeling that we are the right fit to get us to the North Pole, and get us there competitively. More to come.
The Orienteering was supposed to take us over 2 hours and involved a lot of traipsing around the country side overcoming various obstacles that had been cleverly put in our way. With a little pre planning and taking the time to work our an intelligent route, we got back as the first team and withing 9m minutes - the only prize was that we were the first back into the warmth for a cup of tea - what a great prize! I should add that it was not a race, nor was it competitive - words I have ignored all of my life.
I will blog again soon - I have been sleeping in the garden as it has been dropping below zero and there is a lot of snow; I have TWO charities that I am now supporting, and I have had most of my clothing logo'd up and its all coming together well.
One last post - If anyone knows of companies who would like to sponsor this crazy endeavour then PLEASE get them on the blog!
