Thu, Dec 14, 2006
"We've Got Unfinished Business"
After taking off in their Bell 407
from Fort Worth Alliance Airport on December 5, Polar First
helicopter pilots Jennifer Murray and Colin Bodill made Waco, TX,
their first stop -- where they spent the afternoon visiting the
aviation classes at Waco High School.
On December 6, they gave a presentation to Waco middle school
students, which included a re-enactment of their crash during their
first attempt in 2003. They then departed from Paul Tyson Field
next to Waco High School -- before a crowd filled with students,
Waco ISD Administration, city officials and special guests. Waco
Mayor Virginia DuPuy even read a proclamation, naming the day
"Polar First Day" in the city of Waco.
Why would two pilots who sustained life-threatening injuries in
the previously mentioned crash want to try again?
"We’ve always said we’ll have another go, and
that’s exactly what we’re going to do -- we’ve
got unfinished business," said Murray. "Happily many of our
previous sponsors are as keen as we are to see this unique journey
completed, so with their support, together with some new ones,
we’re hoping to complete the world record by May 2007."
“There is bound to be a certain amount of trepidation on
our part as we embark on this journey, and crossing the Ronne Ice
Shelf where we crashed last time will be emotional. However what
drives me on is our unique project with the RGS, the enthusiasm the
schools and children are showing for the project, and of course the
unstinting support and encouragement from our sponsors,”
Murray added.
Murray and Bodill are currently waiting out the weather in
Panama, nine days after setting off to once again attempt a new
world record for flying around the world via the South and North
Poles.
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