Traveling
by skidoo and sledge is one of the quickest and most versatile ways of
getting around. These skidoos are the heavy duty version with twin tracks
for power and a single ski in front, as opposed to the more commonly seen
single track - twin ski arrangement.
Heavy duty they are too, we had one that at some point
in its life had been dropped through a hole in the sea ice, had ropes tied
onto it by divers and then hauled up again to be dried, cleaned and put
back into service.
Skidoos usually pull sledges in Antarctica for extra
cargo and people. The man at the back is the "jockey" there to
lean into the turn and so steer the sledge to avoid it tipping up. At very
cold temperatures it was the most awful place to be. No windshield to hide
behind, just stand straight upright and face the gale caused as the skidoo
towed you forwards at great speed. I have memories of standing there being
aware of little other than cold as my goggles steamed up and froze with me
not being able to do anything about it. The world just passed by in an icy
blur.
Paul
Ward - Pentax equipment, 50mm lens, 35mm film, K64.
This picture may not be copied or used in any manner without
prior written permission.
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