Endeavor

Antarctic Peninsula

Athlete: Glen Poulsen

Camera: Nikon D700

What makes it special: "One key to success is to have a resolute mind with a clear objective."

The story:  "Endeavor" represents this particular mindset. My first attempt to ski Antarctica was a test. I invested so much time and effort, but it was not my time. Finally, after another year of physical training and with the help of Doug Stoup and Ice Axe Expeditions, I stood on the bottom of the world taking in a majestic view.

I watched Glen Poulsen lead his team to the summit of an unknown peak. Their ascent was slow and methodical. I kept checking back to see their progress. They made the ridge, turned right and headed for the top of the peak. Were they really thinking of skiing the face from the summit? From my perspective, this unknown mountain was un-skiable with its near vertical face, fracture lines and gaping holes. What were they thinking? Here I was a few miles away, on safe, flat ground, sweating nervously, anxiously waiting to see their next move. The small team arrived at the summit and celebrated. I can only imagine their 360-degree view of unnamed pristine peaks and ice-choked waterways in every direction. When they finally turned and started to head back down the ridge the way they had come, I breathed more easily, relieved that they had no intention of skiing that crazy monster mountain.

The price was so simple; experience the summit, anything else was icing on the cake. There would be more perfect powder turns to be had at a later, easier, safer place.

This is the ultimate Endeavor. The quest to climb a mountain is nearly as old as mankind. It doesn't really matter where, how tall, how daunting, or what the mountain is or exemplifies. It's the idea of pursuit, successful or not, that counts. Man has endeavored to climb formidable mountains forever. The purpose, if there is one, still remains as simple as ever; it's a personal voyage, driven by something within us."