December 29, 2012

Greg's crew waiting to board the IL 76 (Greg Vernovage)

Second Vinson trip for the season is heading for the Ice today, the 29^th.  That’s right on schedule.  They received the call early this morning, telling them the weather was a go which made the flight a go.  About 4 hours in the air to 80 degree S. and then another hour in a smaller aircraft, heading a bit west and north and landing at Vinson base camp.  They’re off!

Phil Ershler

December 28, 2012

Sunsets last a long time in Punta Arenas (Greg Vernovage)

Heard from Greg and team in Punta Arenas.  ALE, the flight service, held a briefing for all the teams this morning.  It’s show time.  Luggage has been picked up and loaded into the IL 76.  Now, it’s a matter of weather.  The gang may even fly tonight.  If not, hopefully first thing in the morning.  Bottom line is that the crew is ready, luggage is locked and loaded and it’s show time.

Greg sent us this photo from their hotel.  Any further south on the continent and they’re swimming.  As he said, the sunsets lasts quite a while in Punta Arenas.

Phil Ershler

December 28, 2012

One Happy Crew (Greg Vernovage)

Greg Vernovage checked in from Punta Arenas on Thursday evening.  The team’s pretty much ready to go.  Here’s hoping weather is good on the 29^th so the gang can fly to the Ice.

“Good day for the team.  Gear checks done, great day in Punta Arenas, some lunch food and some repacking.  This is going to be a great team.  They are ready to go and laughing like crazy for now.  Briefing day tomorrow followed with the gear getting weighed and loaded.  The team is going to sneak in the Magellan’s foot tomorrow as well.  Have to touch the foot!  We are in for another amazing sunset if anyone stays awake for it.  Almost 11 pm and just enough clouds in the sky to show some color.  All is well.” – Greg

Phil Ershler

December 27, 2012

The IL 76 (Phil Ershler)

Greg Vernovage has the second IMG Vinson team for the season in Punta Arenas, Chile now.  All members are there with all their luggage.  Shopping is pretty much done and most of it will be packed by this afternoon.  Each member’s personal gear needs to be carefully checked this afternoon, too.

Tomorrow’s the briefing with the flight service and the crew of the IL 76, the huge Russian cargo airplane that will take the team to 80 degrees South.  If weather permits, they fly on the 29^th.  That means New Year’s Eve and Day will be on the Ice.  Amazing!

We’ll keep you posted as they work their way up the highest mountain at the bottom of the world.

Phil Ershler