In November 2025, Ian Hughes will set out alone to ski 492 nautical miles (911 km) from the Ronne Ice Shelf to the Geographic South Pole. Pulling an 80–100 kg sled, he will face –10°C to –35°C temperatures (without wind chill), high altitude, katabatic winds, sastrugi, and hidden crevasses — all without outside support.
This 50–60 day journey is the penultimate stage of Ian’s attempt to complete the Explorers Grand Slam, a feat fewer than 75 people have ever achieved. If successful, he will become only the second Briton to do so.
The expedition aims to raise £100,000 for veterans’ mental health, supporting organisations such as the Rifleman’s Benevolent Trust and Always a Rifleman. Ian’s journey will also raise awareness of the urgent challenges faced by veterans, including PTSD, depression, homelessness, and the alarming rate of suicides within the community.
“This expedition is more than a personal challenge — it’s a platform to give back to those who’ve served.” — Ian Hughes
Ian will follow the Messner Route, starting at the Ronne Ice Shelf and climbing gradually to over 2,800m at the Pole. This path, first pioneered by Reinhold Messner, avoids resupply drops, making it the purest form of Antarctic crossing: solo and unsupported.
This is the most ambitious and challenging stage of Ian’s journey — and the most visible opportunity for your brand. Partner with Ian to be part of a world-class feat of endurance, broadcast through media coverage, live updates, and post-expedition events
Exclusive South Pole Opportunities:
Platinum Partner: £25,000
Prime logo placement on sled, clothing, and gear; top billing in all South Pole media content.
Raising £100,000 for veterans’ mental health through expeditions to the world’s highest peaks and most remote poles.
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