Why did Roald Amundsen reach the South Pole before Robert Falcon Scott?

Roald Amundsen reached the South Pole before Robert Falcon Scott primarily due to superior logistical planning and his choice of transport.12

Amundsen’s expedition was meticulously prepared; he established his base at the Bay of Whales, which was 60 miles (100 km) closer to the pole than Scott’s base. Furthermore, Amundsen utilized sled dogs, which were highly effective for the terrain, and he took the time to deposit food supplies along his route in advance. His party consisted of experienced skiers and dog teams, allowing them to travel efficiently and return safely.12

In contrast, Scott’s expedition faced significant setbacks. His reliance on motor sledges proved unsuccessful when the equipment broke down, and his use of Siberian ponies was ill-suited for the harsh conditions, forcing the animals to be shot. Ultimately, Scott’s team relied on man-hauling their sledges over the Beardmore Glacier, a physically exhausting method that contributed to their tragic demise on the return journey.132