This concludes a search for a drilling rig capable of handling the demanding environment encountered in the Vision Rice University #1 (VRU#1) well, the company said. This process was complicated further by the tight availability of such rigs within the market area that encompasses deep shale plays in East Texas and Western Louisiana.
Pantheon has been informed by Vision that due to both rigs’ current commitments, the VWB#1 well is now expected to spud in May 2010. The delay is a consequence of the joint venture’s desire and requirement to have the appropriate facilities in place to prevent a recurrence of VRU#1’s mechanical difficulties.
Both rigs possess the required horse power pumping/pulling capacity and crew needed to drill the next well effectively. Once spudded, drilling is expected to take around 75 days on a trouble free basis. The main objective for the next well will be the Austin Chalk and the chosen location will test a high potential target.
Jay Cheatham, CEO of Pantheon, said: “The most important thing for Pantheon and its shareholders is to have a drilling rig capable of handling the depths and pressures anticipated in the next well. Vision has expended much effort in identifying the best and most appropriate rigs available.
“Both rigs are not only properly equipped but also have first class crews. Obtaining the correct rig is worth the waitand I look forward to spudding with great enthusiasm and optimism.”
