an example of a failed simulation: 15 year skis to north pole

Here's an example of the "failed simulation" idea we were discussing yesterday.

In order to raise awareness for the effects climate change is having on the arctic (unprecedented ice loss, temperature shifts, melting of permafrost and destabilization of homes built upon it, and species dislocation), 15 year old Parker Liautand is about to attempt an expedition to be one of the youngest person to ski the "last degree" to the north pole. Its a 14 day expedition, skiing 110 km across shifting ice, and occasionally requires one to get into an immersion suit and swim across freezing waters).

This sounds like a crazy feat of endurance, and probably makes most people wonder how such a feat is even possible. But the article describes the "deliberate practice" Parker has been doing in order to prepare.

He's been training vigorously in preparation for the trip, working extra hard to add weight to his teenage frame. His strength training has consisted of wearing a 25 pound weighted vest while dragging a weighted sled around a track in his native country of England. And that's a good thing because come March 31, Parker will have only his training and the aid of Doug Stoup to help him on his journey. Parker has very limited experience in this arena, having only been to the North Pole on one other occasion for an eco-tour.

You can read more about the expedition here.

So what is your "last degree adventure"?