The hardest part of my solo ski expedition to the South Pole

‘what was the hardest part?’ - is a question I’m sometimes asked.

Yesterday, 4 years ago, I set off from Hercules Inlet to ski solo & unsupported to the South Pole.

I was so excited, so nervous, so determined, so grateful - all at the same time. Could I actually do this?

But throughout that journey it was clear that something didn’t feel right. Something was missing.

Hazel should’ve been there.

She worked completely and utterly tirelessly, morning and night and even came to Punta Arenas - the last stop before Antarctica - with me.

Working full time in jobs too, we waded through rejection as we tried - unsuccessfully - to get funding for me; eventually taking out a huge loan. There was no way I could let so many people, and the charity, Marie Curie, down.

Not even once did she question why I was going, or if I should still go, even though I questioned myself every day. She was a beacon of selfless drive and positivity throughout it all.

Fortunately, these are some of the best traits to have with you as an expedition partner.

And now when we go away, there’s nothing missing.

It’s all right here.

I have everything - and everyone - I need.

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- Luke