Welsh adventurer Richard Parks has become the fastest ever Brit to reach the South Pole during an unsupported solo journey.
The former international rugby star reached the Pole at 5.24am on January 4 after skiing 715 miles from the geographical coastline of Antarctica. With a total time of 29 days, 19 hours and 24 minutes, Parks managed to set a new British record by knocking 10 days off the previous time speed attempt.
Arriving at the 3,000m high Pole in temperatures of -24c, Richard said: “I’m exhausted. Physically I am absolutely shattered, mentally I am frazzled, it is just a lot to take in. I have a lot of emotions bouncing around but I am happy, proud and grateful.”
Throughout the expedition Richard battled extreme Arctic temperatures, whiteouts, windchill and pulled along a 10 stone toboggan – a challenge in itself requiring extreme mental and physical stamina. His success comes just two years after he became the first person to climb the highest mountain on each of the world’s 7 continents and stand on all 3 poles within 7 months during his 737 Challenge.
RELATED LINKS:
www.richardparks.co.uk