Endurance: Race to the Pole with Ben Fogle start date confirmed
News: Endurance: Race to the Pole with Ben Fogle starts Tuesday 2 October at 9pm on Channel 5 and My5.
Explore a captivating three-part immersive documentary series as Ben Fogle and Dwayne Fields embark on a riveting journey, reliving the gripping challenges and triumphs of the perilous race to the pole that marked the dawn of the 20th century. In this extraordinary odyssey, Ben and Dwayne step back in time, immersing themselves in the very essence of the era: donning the attire, savoring the cuisine, and employing the identical equipment as their Edwardian predecessors – the iconic explorers Scott, Shackleton, and Amundsen. Together, they reenact pivotal moments that witnessed Amundsen's historic arrival at the pole, Shackleton's transformation into a seasoned polar adventurer, and the fateful expedition of Robert Falcon Scott, culminating in tragedy, jeopardy, and the emergence of true heroes.
Episode one transports us to the year 1901, marking the inception of the illustrious Great Age of Antarctic Exploration. Captain Robert Falcon Scott assumes leadership of Britain's ambitious "Discovery" Expedition to Antarctica, with the ambitious goal of reaching the South Pole. Joining Scott on this formidable endeavor is a fresh-faced recruit, Ernest Shackleton, ready to make history alongside his mentor.
Follow Ben and Dwayne as they touch down in the vast expanse of Antarctica, undergoing a remarkable transformation from contemporary polar explorers into the living embodiments of their Edwardian predecessors. Clad in period-accurate attire, they embark on their own journey, meticulously equipped with replicated gear and rations, aiming to relive the pivotal moments of the inaugural pole quest.
In the spirit of Scott and Shackleton, who once relied on sled dogs in their endeavor, Ben and Dwayne face the challenge of a modern Antarctica where non-indigenous species are prohibited. With sheer determination, they resort to the age-old technique of man hauling, laboriously dragging a wooden "Nansen" sled laden with essential survival equipment across the unforgiving terrain. Their endeavors prove to be physically taxing and mentally grueling, culminating in the establishment of their replica tent on the desolate icy plains.
Undaunted by the harsh environment, they adhere to historical rations, preparing the legendary polar dish, "Hoosh," for breakfast and dinner. This hearty stew, crafted from dried beef, rendered beef fat, and sturdy ship's biscuits, melds with the purity of melted snow to sustain them through their arduous journey.
Scott's pursuit of the pole unfolds with unwavering determination, ultimately earning him a world record for venturing further south than any human had ventured into the enigmatic heart of Terra Incognita, as Antarctica was then known. However, despite his valiant efforts, Scott's quest would ultimately fall short, with the pole remaining many hundreds of kilometers beyond his reach.
Words: Simon Baines
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