Polar expedition fitting tribute to old heroes

I WAS disappointed to read Dan Murphy’s acerbic analysis of the recent expedition to the South Pole which he described as “beyond a joke” (Letters, January 19).

How difficult it has become to impress some people in this day and age when “through a chink too wide there comes in no wonder”.

I can think of a number of really worthwhile aspects to the Beyond Endurance trip. Heightened awareness of the South Pole and the impact of climate change for one. A real-time, tangible link to geography and exploration for schoolchildren who followed the team on the web.

But more than anything, what a brilliant and fitting tribute to Crean, Shackleton and the McCarthy brothers from Kinsale. Even more appropriate was the presence of Clare O’Leary whose unassuming manner is more than resonant of our unsung heroes of the past. Definitely Cork’s answer to Ellen MacArthur.

I don’t care what satellite and GPS technology was to hand. The act of putting one weary foot in front of the next for days on end through the ice was remarkable. I applaud Pat Falvey who has been consistent over the years in following his own dreams and in encouraging others to dream and scheme.

Colmán Ó Donnchadha

25 Walmsley Road

St Heliers

Auckland

New Zealand