From Hercules Inlet To The South Pole With Chris Foot

You know by now that we don’t just organise races in some of the world’s most extreme environments at EWR: we also take part in those races – and in other extreme challenges.

EWR friend and extreme consultant Chris Foot is one of those who not only helps others train and prepare for races in extreme conditions but also takes on challenges that would make even the hardiest think twice before attempting.

Earlier this year, Chris completed the 350 mile EWR Polar Challenge race to the Magnetic North Pole. This would be challenge enough for most people in one year. But not for Chris. On November 25th, Chris set off from Hercules Inlet (79.98565S,79.9768166W) in Antarctica and began a solo unsupported trek to the South Pole and back. His only companion is the pulk that he’s pulling along behind him.

There’s Method In The Madness

So, why is Chris attempting to become the first to make the journey from Hercules Inlet to the South Pole – and back – with no assistance and no support?

Chris is someone who believes in pushing boundaries. As an ex-Royal Marine and the youngest serving member of the SAS (at 21), he’d already experienced mental and physical endurance before he left the military and turned to performance training for individuals, sportsmen and women, and companies. As he says on his company website,

I firmly believe that all excellence can be modelled and applied effectively. The limits of individual potential can be stretched drastically when introduced to effective strategies and frameworks, which are most importantly matched by a persons desire to constantly enhance themselves in all capacities.

He hopes to match words and action on this challenge. Putting together the known risks of the Antarctic environment, the unforeseen dangers that may arise, and a long period of solitude is exactly the recipe for testing the limits of human performance.

And while Chris is hoping to push himself further than ever before, he will also be raising money for Combat Stress – a charity that helps former military personnel confront and overcome mental health problems.

Follow Chris From The Safety Of Your Browser

Follow Chris’s progress on the expedition site, where you can view a Google Map of his route and read daily updates of what’s happening on the Antarctic Plateau.

The Daily Telegraph recently ran a story about Chris, his training, and his expedition. Read it online at the Telegraph website.