Real 'Survivors': First-Ever Ski Crossing Of Antarctic Continent by Women

    ROCKLEIGH, N.J., Feb. 5 American polar explorer, Ann
Bancroft and Norway's Antarctic veteran, Liv Arnesen, both former teachers and
genuine "survivors" are close to their goal of becoming the first women to ski
across the forbidding Antarctic continent.  Relying on nature and their own
stamina and bravery, the explorers have already skied and been pulled by
ski-sails across 1,600 miles of treacherous ice and snow.  The Volvo-sponsored
team is hopeful of completing its 2,300-mile Antarctic odyssey later this
month.
    Struggling against sub-zero freezing temperatures, high winds and the
physical demands required to pull individual 250 lb. equipment sleds are but
part of their daily challenge.  The team is encouraged to keep in touch with
the world, and the growing number of expedition fans via the Internet.  When
the weather cooperates, satellite communications enable Liv and Ann to
communicate with an international following of schoolchildren, well-wishers
and media.  The expedition is now well beyond the South Pole halfway-point and
approximately 550 miles from completion at McMurdo station.
     When completed, the Bancroft Arnesen Expedition will mark the first
successful ski-crossing of the ice continent by women and will be the longest
known ski trek by women overall.  "Volvo believes in the human spirit and in
programs that seek to empower human effort and achievement.  The Bancroft
Arnesen expedition makes an important real-world statement.  Volvo is very
proud of the team and its many accomplishments," said Mark LaNeve, President
and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America.
    To further convey its support, Volvo engineers will coordinate a live
phone call from Bancroft and Arnesen in Antarctica, somewhere on the Ross Ice
Shelf, near the Shakelton Glacier, to a press conference held during the
Chicago Auto Show.
    The Volvo press conference is scheduled for February 8 at Chicago's
McCormick Center.  The Bancroft Arneson call is expected to begin at
approximately 2:30 PM.
    "We thought it appropriate for the core automotive press to understand why
Volvo decided to become part of this incredible human achievement.  Weather
and technology allowing, the Expedition's call will come through during our
press conference.  We trust their message will serve to remind those listening
of what the human spirit is truly capable of achieving ... and not just on a
made-for-TV adventure.  These courageous women are more than survivors, they
epitomize the meaning of 'Volvo for Life'", added Mark LaNeve.
    The Bancroft Arnesen Expedition plans to reach McMurdo Station in late
February.  The team's progress may be followed by visiting its website
http//www.yourexpedition.com.