Serco TranArctic Expedition 2004 launched at the Science Museum
Date : 16 February 2004
Serco Group plc ("Serco") has announced, today, its sponsorship of 26-year-old Ben Saunders in his endeavour to be the first ever person to cross the Arctic Ocean without having to be re-supplied. This means that during the expedition Ben will be totally unsupported; no drops of food, fuel or supplies of any kind for what is expected to be a 90-day journey. For the 1,240-mile expedition, Ben will be hauling everything that he needs, from day one, on a sledge that will weigh 178kg fully loaded. His mode of transport? A pair of skis and a specially designed dry suit for crossing stretches of open water (leads).
As if this weren't enough, the conditions he will encounter throughout his journey are extreme, with temperatures as low as -45°C and a wind chill factor that can take temperatures to below -70°C. He also runs the risk of having to deal with polar bears along the Canadian and Russian coastlines.
Ben Saunders, 26, has had a life-long passion for the outdoors and has already established himself as one of today's most exciting and successful polar athletes, already boasting two record-breaking polar expeditions. As Ben says:
"The Serco TransArctic Expedition 2004 is all about exploring human, rather than geographical limits. I hope it will be a message to others worldwide that with enough self-belief and determination, anything is possible."Christopher Hyman, Serco's Chief Executive, first met Ben after he had spoken at a Duke of Edinburgh Award's ceremony. Having the opportunity to speak with Ben afterwards, he was impressed by his indomitable spirit and desire to push the boundaries of human achievement.
Commenting on the expedition and Serco's sponsorship, Christopher said:
"As a company, Serco relies on its people and culture to provide world-class innovative solutions across a variety of geographies and markets, while continually pushing our business boundaries. The "can do" attitude that I see every day across our business is personified by what Ben is attempting.
The determination, enthusiasm and commitment that Ben's expedition will require is something that epitomises the attitude of Serco employees around the world and this is why we have decided to support Ben's record breaking expedition."
Download PDF [PDF, 74 KB] (Please note: this link will open the page in a new browser window)