"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.

FMI: www.polarfirst.com