N.L. man completes month-long journey across Greenland ice cap
550 km trek across Greenland ice cap completed in 29 days
A Newfoundlander skiing across the Greenland ice cap to benefit the Gathering Place has reached his final destination.
Rene Ritter embarked on his journey in the Greenland community of Isertoq on Aug. 17, and after 29 days and 550 kilometres of skiing, arrived in Kangerlussuaq last week.
According to Ritter, it was a grueling but worthwhile trip.
"It was basically getting up at 5 a.m., making water, having some breakfast and then skiing at 7 a.m."
"Ski for about 13 hours, and then make camp just before dark or at dark, cook up dinner, wake up and do the same thing over and over again for a month."
Beautiful scenery
Along the way, Ritter has raised $4,498 and counting for the Gathering Place, a St. John's organization that helps people in the community by providing hot meals, a space to socialize, and support for those in need.
"I discovered the Gathering Place last year and learned about them a little bit and really admire the work they do there," he said.
Ritter said the trip offered incredible views and a chance to reflect on what's important in life.
"The sunsets are spectacular. It's hard to explain. You can see by the photos, it's just a blood red sky. You're humbled by its simplicity and its beauty."
Travelling across the ice cap is a journey that's proved dangerous for many travellers, but Ritter said his group was able to soldier through.
"The beginning and the end were very challenging. Particularly getting on the glacier and coming off, because when ice meets land you get a lot of bumps and cracks and holes and things you can fall into," he said.
"It can be an extremely dangerous place but thankfully it wasn't too bad for us."
Ritter's next move looks to be a little more relaxing.
He's leaving Greenland and heading on a honeymoon with his wife, who he married shortly before leaving on his expedition.
"She's been pretty amazingly understanding. To get married and then have your husband run away for a month to live in the wilderness? We're going to spend some time somewhere warm," he said.
With files from Carolyn Stokes