Of equal significance for today’s elite athletes is thorough psychological preparation
– both as individuals and as a coherent team. Whilst Pen, Ann and Martin are all
veterans of polar exploration and have already proven their mental resilience, the
wider scientific implications of the Catlin Arctic Survey inevitably contribute
additional pressures beyond any of their previous personal endeavours.
Reinforcing their positive approach through a combination of visualisation techniques,
open discussion and consideration of potential contingencies, Dr Mark Wilson (also
of the Sport & Health Sciences Dept at Exeter University) facilitates various informal
group sessions to further prepare the team.
Success will undoubtedly rely upon a monumental collective team effort – particularly
against the harsh and unforgiving environment of the polar ice cap.
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Mark first met Pen Hadow two years ago while Pen was preparing for a planned solo
attempt at crossing the Arctic Ocean; alone and unsupported.
From a psychological perspective, the demands of this project will be very different
to a solo expedition.
Performing as an effective team will be an absolutely key requirement and it is
imperative that Pen, Ann and Martin are clear about their separate roles and responsibilities.
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Prior to stepping foot on the ice, Mark and the other support staff will be examining
each of the team members' preferred working styles and determining potential 'pressure
points' where problems may arise.
Mark will also help the team members to develop their own strategies for dealing
with the combined pressures of fatigue, cold, hunger, tension and perceived pressure,
which will be part of their daily lives for three months
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Thursday, 09th April 2009
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Spring in our step
Posted by
Pen Hadow
It’s hard to believe I’m feeling so much better because temperatures here have risen to -24 degrees C! By any standard that’s not exactly warm, but it feels like a new world compared to the -40!...more
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Tuesday, 24th March 2009
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No Go
Posted by
Ian Wesley
Up at the crack of an Arctic dawn today. Today is the day that I'm going to see the ice team – or so I thought....more
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Monday, 16th March 2009
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Utterly bombproof
Posted by
Pen Hadow
I once described Martin during a press conference as “utterly bombproof in a polar environment”, a remark that I stand by to this day. Not only does he capture the very essence of the moment in his images, be it action, emotion or event, he does so in the most inhospitable of conditions. Where others fade and head to warmer climates, Martin comes to the fore, delivering awe-inspiring images despite the bitter cold and cutting winds....more
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Saturday, 14th March 2009
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Fractures
Posted by
Simon Harris-Ward
At around 2200 local time, as Pen, Ann and Martin lay in their tent, they felt the ice vibrating dramatically underneath them and heard the all too familiar screeching sound of grating ice floes......more
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Tuesday, 03rd March 2009
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