Member Martin set to be the first disabled person to reach the South Pole unassisted

Adaptive explorer Martin embarks on a trek to the South Pole.

Disabled Explorer Martin Hewitt is taking on the world first polar mission with the aim of becoming the first disabled person to reach the South Pole unsupported and unassisted from the base camp at the edge of Antarctica.

The former Para, whose right arm was paralysed when he was shot in Afghanistan in 2007, aims to complete the 1,000km trek in 45 days. He will be guided by Louis Rudd MBE, Director of Expeditions at Shackleton and the only person to have crossed Antarctica on foot twice.

They will travel across the world’s coldest, windiest, and highest continent while hauling 95kg of food and equipment without resupplying.

On his departure, Martin said “After months of physical and mental preparation, I feel ready to take on this south pole expedition and can’t wait to get a step closer to completing the Adaptive Grand Slam. I hope that by succeeding in this challenge, I can show people that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. If you have support, drive and determination. And, that a debilitating injury should never stand in your way.”

The South Pole trek marks the penultimate phase of the Adaptive grand Slam, an adaptation of the infamous Explorers Grand Slam: Martin’s mission to climb the highest peak on every continent and walk to both poles.

In his Antarctica endeavour, Martin has been supported by Blesma along with several other sponsors.

The South Pole trek is part of a two-phrase expedition and once completed, Martin will attempt to climb Mount Vinson, Antarctica’s highest mountain.

To the map of Martin, visit the Shackleton website.

To read their blog and hear updates from Martin and Lou themselves, visit the Adaptive Grand Slam Website