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Ann Made it to the South Pole!

Posted: Thursday, November 08, 2007 7:25 AM by Dan Fleschner
Filed Under: ,

At 6:56 a.m. ET, just four minutes before we went on the air, TODAY producer Matt Carluccio called the control room to let us know that Ann and the crew had successfully landed at the South Pole.

Moments after we went on the air, Ann spoke to Matt, Meredith and Al on the phone, getting a standing ovation from the studio. WATCH VIDEO

After six days of unsuccessful trips from McMurdo Station to the South Pole, Ann and company finally made it -- and arrived to people holding "Welcome Ann!" signs. It sounds like she and the crew were a little queasy when they arrived, which stands to reason -- in about a three-hour span, they went from sea level to an altitude of more than 9,300 feet. That'll mess with your body.

The temperature at the South Pole was minus-53, with a wind chill of minus-78. As our executive producer, Jim Bell, deadpanned, "It's the wind chill that gets you every time." So hopefully everyone there is bundled up!

We'll be checking in with Ann as the morning continues...

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Congratulations Ann! I am an Oregonian myself, but a Beaver like the other poster above. Remember why you are there and what scientists do. Thank all your lucky stars -- your crew -- that helped get you there safe and sound.

Shayna, Corvallis, Oregon (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 1:42 PM)

Ann:  Unbelievable.  I can't even get on a plane from paralyzing fear and you're all over the world and now the South Pole.  I admire you and wish you well.  I wish I had a tenth of your amazing courage and spirit. Stay safe.

Jo Ann, Coconut Creek, FL (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 1:48 PM)

Ann,

Congratulations!  You are without a doubt one of the best anchor/journalists in the business.  I admire your passion, tenacity and the fact you aren't content to sit in the anchor chair and read the teleprompter.  The "End of the Earth" series was excellent and kudos to you, Matt and Al.  The three of you and sometimes Natalie aren't afraid to leave your comfort zones regardless of the danger or controversy regarding the story.  Hopefully, one day, you will be rewarded with the anchor chair which should have been the case when Katie departed.

Andrena, Minneapolis, MN (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 1:50 PM)

Hi Ann,
 You met my daughter, Melany Zimmerman, on the plane to McMurdo.  She works at the Pole with Project Ice Cube (she is the only woman working on that project).  I am a teacher at Chapel Hill High School and my media center has been taping your show all week in hopes that we may catch a glimpse of Melany.  Even if you are unable to interview her, I have loved your broadcast.  I knew that Melany and all her friends who work at the Pole were amazing and adventurious, but seeing the area on your broadcast has made it real for me.  Thank you for allowing me to see where my daughter really is working, and for doing such a relevant broadcast.

Mary Zimmerman (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 1:51 PM)

Congratulations Ann and to all that made the trip possible! I can hardly wait to see as much footage as is allowed on the news. This is why I will always be a big fan of the Today Show (NBC). The cast is great and there's never a dull moment! God's speed and have a safe trip back home.

Evelyn Goins, King, NC (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:02 PM)

Hey Ann,
   I am just thrilled that ALL of you arrived at the Pole safely, I was really worried that something might happen because of the bad weather. You're a great lady, and I admire your stick-to-itness. Congratulations to all of you! Now get back home safely.     Jane, Southern, MD.

Jane Washington, St. Leonard, MD. (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:04 PM)

Cool Work! … Literally. As a guy who spent 25 years in the news biz, I must say I’m a bit jealous. Congrats to all at NBC for excellent reporting and tech work. And why not, Go Guard! Even though Ann did give credit, we can’t say it enough. Thanks those who serve!

Chuck Williams, Cape May, NJ (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:18 PM)

Congrat, Ann! I love watching everything you do!! They gave the woman the hard job and You succeeded with the wonderful help of the Air National Guard!! Please keep up the excellent work!! God Bless and Safe journey home!!

Mary Louise Shores-Dance , Fort Washington, MD (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:28 PM)

AMAZING!  As I watched throughout the week, my thought was, "Don't Give Up!"... After watching you for so many years, I knew it would happen.  Congratulations to you and your team and Thank you for bringing us along for the journey!

Leticia Lopez, Los Angeles CA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:31 PM)

Congrats Ann:

I couldn't wait this morning to find out if you made it.  Great reporting. Thanks for sharing.

Kimberly Stecher Greenwood, IN (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:38 PM)

I think Julie Raz and Bob Faenger are “green” with Jealousy.  We all wish we could be with Ann and experience Antarctica in person.  One thing Ann does, she ALWAYS thanks those around her, and never takes credit. She’s gracious, kind and gentle, and she is a great journalist.  Great reporting. Have a safe trip home. Thanks Matt, Meredith, Ann and Al for bringing smiles to our faces every day.

FAF, Unionville, CT (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:40 PM)

Congratulations!  My 6th grade geography classes have been following your trip and mapping your route.  We can't wait to see video footage!

Jane Garrett, Grand Rapids, Michigan (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 2:42 PM)

Ann,

I may not know you personally, but you do show a lot of perseverance. I hadn't really liked all the touting of being green, but I do say that people need to have awareness of what goes on in the world around them. This is first and foremost the lord's creation, and each one of us must do our part. Ann, you remind me of myown courage. Though I have not been to the South Pole ( and probably never will go), I had a time on a pioneer trek that we took in honor of our ancestors where I could have gone ahead to the destination to get my medicine, but I decided to go the rest of the way, whichthe whole trip was 16 miles, something I, like you with the South Pole, have never done before. Thank you, Ann.  You have inspired some people to try it themselves. Please be safe, and I along with some in this comment bracket will pray for your safe return. Please pass this on to your any in your family, so that they will have it for generations to come.

Daniel Cowan

Daniel M. Cowan, Henderson, Nevada (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:00 PM)

This has been a fantastic and enlightening segment.  Ann rocks no doubt about it.  I want to thank her very patient family for giving her up so often so that we can  learn and enjoy all that Ann and the technical team and everyone else behind the scenes can bring to us.  

Julie Shanahan, Brookfield, IL (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:01 PM)

CONGRATULATIONS ANN, MATT AND AL:
WHAT YOU DID WAS GREAT AND 99% OF US LOVED IT! NOT ONLY ARE YOU SHOWING US PLACES WE'VE NEVER BEEN AND PROBABLY NEVER GO, BUT YOU ARE ALSO SHOWING WHAT GLOBAL WARMING IS DOING TO OUR PLANET. DON'T EVEN PAY ATTENTION TO THOSE NAY SAYERS. THEY MIGHT BE COMPLAINING ABOUT WHAT YOU DID BUT THEY WATCHED DIDN'T THEY. KUDOS TO ALL OF THE TODAY SHOW!!!!!

ROBIN FRATES, GREENACRES, FLORIDA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:06 PM)

CONGRATULATIONS! I was watching the today show when they announced the "breaking news" that you had arrived and got a standing ovation. I was clapping with tears coming out of my eyes. It must be an incredible experience.

Patricia Martinez, San Jose CA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:12 PM)

God bless you, Ann! I watch the Today Show in the morning while my daughter and I get ready for work and school and we were both fascinated by the whole serious with Matt, Al and Ann. I'm glad she stuck to it and made it to the bottom of the globe. I was worried about her safety and the safety of the crew and prayed for them the night before. I hate cold weather, but if I could, that's a once-in-a-lifetime trip I would love to make!

Dorothy Terry, Dumfries, VA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:14 PM)

Congrats on making it to the Pole.  A big THANK YOU to the men and women of the 109th.  I'm glad you made it and are all safe.

Karen Bednarowski, San Ramon, CA via Schenectady, NY (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:14 PM)

wowwwww anne, you really got guts, I truly admire you, you are a hell of a woman. I couldn't beleive it that you have made it there, that is great, and to the people that are critizicing you, I just want to tell them not to watch the show. they are crazy!!!
Now you deserve a nice vacation down here in beautiful Florida!!!
love and have a safe trip home

emma vicci, Pembroke Pines, Fl (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:17 PM)

Congratulations to the entire crew...you did it!!!!!  Have a safe trip home.

Jennifer Quaye, Ft. Lewis, Wash (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:18 PM)

knew you would do it if anyone could love your style

Rosetta Ortiz Bronx New York (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:19 PM)

HATS OFF TO YOU ANN AND YOUR CREW!  It was great hearing your voice this morning.  Please keep up the great work you are doing.  Have a safe trip home.

Maureen, Orlando, Florida (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:19 PM)

Julie Raz was really razed-up wasn't she?  She should get her story straight.  Ann did thank (the 109th airLift wing)...And I am sure she will thank them again, along with the LC-130 crew and everyone else who helped her get to the South Pole -- AS soon as her Lips De-Frost,--It is hard to speak and concentrate in 50 degrees below 'O' weather.  She did a good job, give the girl some slack.

ge@pa (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:24 PM)

Hurray Ann, and the NBC news crew!
This has been so inspiring to watch.  For Ann and the crew to make it to the South Pole was amazing.  I too had tears in my eyes when we all finally heard your voice this morning.  The scientists and everyone on Antarctica are so important and these live reports are incredible to watch.  We all pray for your safe return back to the U.S. and once again thank you so much for taking time to inform us of the importance of Antarctica and the work that goes on there.  It is refreshing to be reminded that there is more going on in the world then sports and hollywood!!!

Leann Carpenter, Galien, MI (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:25 PM)

Congratulations Ann.  You're a true hero.

My best to the entire TODAY show.

Helen Vartabedian, Burbank, CA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:36 PM)

Please help digg the story to the front page at Digg!
http://digg.com/offbeat_news/Ann_Curry_Lands_At_the_South_Pole_NBC_New_Team

kellie ramsey (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:39 PM)

I really had such a positive feeling about Ann...very discouraged she set a poor example wearing fur..I was very surprised.

Melissa Witul Long Beach CA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:44 PM)

God bless you, Ann! I watch the Today Show in the morning while my daughter and I get ready for work and school and we were both fascinated by the whole serious with Matt, Al and Ann. I'm glad she stuck to it and made it to the bottom of the globe. I was worried about her safety and the safety of the crew and prayed for them the night before. I hate cold weather, but if I could, that's a once-in-a-lifetime trip I would love to make!

Dorothy Terry, Dumfries, VA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:46 PM)

I just wanted to comment on the post about Ann trying to get to the Pole.  It was written "One flight had been so rough that every person aboard got airsick, she said".
This is a gross exaggeration.  The actual number was closer to 50% (18 of 39).
The reason I mention this is because myself and a co-worker were on that flight.  HOW does a newsteam w/ TODAY'S reputation get a fact like that SO evidently wrong?  Makes me wonder about the rest of the factuality of what you are reporting.

Good day,
Aeon Jones

Aeon Jones, McMurdo Station, Antarctica (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 3:49 PM)

ANN I THINK YOUR STORIES ARE ALWAYS GREAT...AND
I WISH THAT MANY MORE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD HAD
YOUR VALUES...THANK YOU AND ALL INVOLVER FOR THE
GREAT STORY...MARY O

MARY OCHAL AMSTERDAM NY (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:00 PM)

To Ann: Congratulations on a job well done under difficult conditions!!
To Al and Matt: you both did excellent reporting jobs also. It was a great team effort. Ann, good luck in coming home safely.
To Today and NBC: Let's see more of these kind of stories. By that I mean stories that entertain but more importantly tell a compelling message about how we can help the earth. Messages that confirm that we all need to reuse and conserve. Thank you for showing us again how small the earth really is, how the choices we make can impact our planet.

Robin Newgent-Carlson, Anaheim,. Ca (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:04 PM)

Ann all I can say, YOU GO GIRL!!!! Congrats Ann!!! I can't wait to see your report from the South Pole. Hope you get back to the states safely. What a week for the Today show. The Today show is getting better and better each passing day. I can't wait until you do Where is the Universe is Matt Lauer? (I hope I didn't scare you, Matt.)

John Santiago Tampa, FL (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:18 PM)

Dear Ann, My daughters, ages 11 and 7, were absolutely amazed to see you made it to the South Pole. One of my girls has been wishing for a Littlest Pets Penguin. Well, I found it just today, of all days, and she has named it "Curry" in honor of you! You always inspire us and make us smile. Congratulations and have a safe journey home!

Michelle Steiner, Fayetteville, AR (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:40 PM)

Congratulations Ann on your amazing trip! Being the great great nephew of Roald Amundsen, I always had a great appreciation for his numerous historic accomplishments and his perseverance to reach the pole first. After watching you at the pole and your description of its adverse conditions, I now have a much deeper appreciation for what my uncle accomplished during an era before our present modern technology. Sailing to Antartica on a wooden ship and utilizing dog sleds to reach the pole, it is inconceivable how he survived those conditions you described. Thank you for holding out for better weather and reaching the pole as I really enjoyed your report. Take care and I hope you have a safe trip home.

Douglas J. Vient, Modesto, California (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:41 PM)

To the person from Long Beach above: Ann Curry wasn't wearing fur -- she was wearing the issued parka that the Antarctic Program gives us down here.  The "fur" lining around the hood is synthetic fibers.

Sue, South Pole Station (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:43 PM)

Hi Anne,

This is Rediron, I posted  Nov. 8, 2007 10:29 A.M., and I take exception to every naysayer who says your endeavor is a waste of fuel, time, self indulging and a publicity stunt.  I recognize  news reporters, dignitaries, artists and all kinds of tourists, as we called them, interfere with the day to day work, but are needed to spread the word about all the wonderful science that’s being done there.  I know this is the opening of resupply season for Pole Station and that no flight is made just to accommodate Anne Curry and her camera crew.  I am certain the National Science Foundation granted you, nobody goes to the Pole without their approval, this experience for a reason and I suspect that it’s because you reach such a large audience.  Go for it Anne, but ask your buddy to keep an eye out for frostbite.

Rediron

Patrick "Rediron" McCormick (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:46 PM)

Hi Ann, you are truly an inspiration to women all over the world. What an accomplishment! I will now call you "Ann of Antarctica". I live in The Bahamas and I have been watching the Today show for 23 years and all week I have been praying that you would make it. I knew that you would because you are very persistent. Come down here now for a warm beach vacation. To Al and Matt, thanks for what you have done for us. Hopefully the world will begin to take this issue of global warming more seriously as a result of your efforts. You guys are the best at the Today show. Send us a shout out in The Bahamas sometime!

Donna H. Nassau, Bahamas (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:46 PM)

I too heard Ann Thank the 109th Air Guard based in Schenectady County NYS for their efforts.  They are a great bunch of Airman and woman whose ski equipped planes were also invoved on the mission to bring the scientist who had breast cancer home for treatment a couple of years ago.  They provide a great air service to our artic bases in Greenland as well.

Jim Kalohn (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:46 PM)

Ann, what a brave lady you are.  Congratulations to you and everyone that made this trip.  Don't freeze up on us, and hurry home.

Claudia Ward, Londonderry, Ohio (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 4:49 PM)

From someone who is at the South Pole, we'd appreciate a bit more restraint.  Coming here is nice, sure, but it's not nearly the dramatic adventure that you are making it out to be. Previously the MSNBC.com web site had stated that only one flight in the past 14 days had made it down here...that's a blatant lie.  Your 45 minute trip down here escorted the whole way is nothing but a publicity stunt.  Being compared to real Antarctic heros like Byrd, Scott, Amundsen, or even the men and women who spend the entire Antarctic winter here is an insult to those who made it possible for you to be here.

Jordan Anderson (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:08 PM)

Ann,
Having taught Biology for over 30 years at a local college, I know the joy and importance of student field trips.  You have brought the ultimate field experience to millions of viewers! I love your enthusiasm, determination, and the joy that you transfer to your "television students" The Today team is exceptional in providing the very best in broadcast journalism.  What a super broadcast from the extreme regions of the globe!  Matt and Al always are equally amazing in their "field work".  You are all special and offer cutting edge experiences for your viewers.  Thanks for a job well done.
Your "student"
Jim Meads, Professor Emeritus of Biology

Jim Meads, Glenville, WV (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:08 PM)

What an adventure for all of you! I was truly captivated by this segment because the North Pole, South Pole, equator, and continents are part of my second grade curriculum. I only caught the end of your journey, but it was the most exciting.  I shared this with my students and encouraged them to watch.  Many did and were fascinated to hear that Ann did make it to the South Pole.   This was truly a special addition to our learning experience. Thanks!!!!

Gail Sowersby Fall River, MA (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:14 PM)

Congratulations, and way to go! I was in Antarctica a year ago but didn't get that far south. I have relived my own journey there and thoroughly enjoyed your exciting journey to places I didn't see. I share your enthusiasm and appreciation of such a beautiful place.

Jerri Clark Kirby Helena, Montana (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:16 PM)

Great work, Anne! You flew to the South Pole with my friend Kelly. I just messaged back and forth about your. She said that you and your crew were extremely nice to them. She really enjoyed meeting you and taking a photo with you on the plane. I love the fact that you were able to make it to the South Pole. When people are asked why they climb Mt. Everest, they say, "Because it's there." The same applies for Antarctica. What an amazing experience and trip of a lifetime. Congrats!

Jax Arcaris, Denver, CO (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:17 PM)

Congratulations Ann!! You reached the South Pole!! I was watching the Today Show when you called in to say that that plane had just touched down. Then everyone gave a standing ovation. You really did a great job reporting from Antarctica. I am glad you made it to the South Pole! Great Job Ann!

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:27 PM)

This has been undoubtedly, one of the most inspiring series done by TODAY.  And you, Ann, have so much courage and determination.  To think, you have stood where so very few have been..a modern day pioneer!  I love watching you every morning. You are sensitive, compassionate and brilliant.  I hope NBC realizes what a gem they have in you.  And what a wonderful team the four of you are each morning.  I now, can't wait until you get back...write a book, share this awesome experience with the rest of us, complete with pictures.  Be safe... all of you and thanks so much for sharing a truly magnificent part of this...our planet Earth with the rest of the world.

Ketha Verzani (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:32 PM)

omg.. this is crazy.. congrats non your accomplishments this week and especially on making to the south pole.. this is what makes the today show the today show.. its the best show in the morning.. and i was so happy when they said that ann got the south pole . but on the same side i was not surprise because the today show is a show of excellence .. excellence of covering the world..know including the south pole!!!

RW,NY,NY (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:37 PM)

CONGRATS! Brought me to tears when I heard you reached the Pole! I hope you are doing well. You are bringing information to much of the world that would never have it, and by doing that are helping to save our planet! Your travel’s and stories have made me feel in touch with more than just the greening of our planet—my son, Clay Johnson, is now working his third year at the South Pole Station as a construction supervisor. As you know, that’s some extreme construction! We, of course, miss Clay terribly when he’s gone, but are very proud of him and the work he is doing. Every position/job down there is so important! This will be (if not already) the most advanced research facility on the planet! It takes many, many tough and dedicated people to make it happen. Ann—THANK YOU! Not only for making me feel closer to Clay when he’s gone, but for the awareness you are giving the world! You are astounding!

Portland, Oregon (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:48 PM)

Today,

CONGRATS..What a wonderful accomplishment!! So proud of Anne and her team! Your all such an inspiration. Please keep on preaching "green"!!!

Richelle Miller, Yukon OK (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 5:51 PM)

The best Today show ever!!! Congratulations to the entire team, both on and off the air. I made my pre-teen son watch the show every day with me. Better than any lesson he could get at school. He got a new awareness and appreciation for our fragile environment. You guys deserve an Emmy for this!

Karen, Miami. (Sent Thursday, November 08, 2007 6:04 PM)



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