Jonny Huntington, a para-skier from Kingsbridge, Devon, has successfully completed a historic solo ski journey to the South Pole, becoming the first disabled person to achieve such a feat. After skiing 566 miles (911 kilometers) across Antarctica’s icy terrain, Huntington reached the South Pole on January 5, 2025, marking the end of his 46-day expedition.
“I’m very happy with how everything turned out,” Huntington shared after completing the journey. Despite his paralysed left foot and limited mobility in his left leg, the 38-year-old athlete managed to endure harsh conditions, including freezing temperatures and 24-hour daylight, while hauling a 242lb (110kg) sled containing food and equipment.
Having suffered a debilitating stroke in 2014, Huntington’s remarkable achievement is a testament to his unwavering determination, as well as the invaluable support from his sister, Claire Huntington, and expedition manager, Toby Cowern.
“I’m surprised by how well I’m doing,” Huntington said from Antarctica. “All the stuff that was hurting on the ice is now not hurting. I’m feeling really good and pretty rested. The main thing from my point of view is that I’ve achieved what I set out to do, and I’m feeling good, safe, and healthy.”
Huntington began his journey from Fuchs-Messner on November 21, 2024. Throughout the trek, he maintained a steady pace, navigating the challenging landscape with the mindset of “taking the rough and the smooth” and moving forward “one step at a time.”
While the full significance of his accomplishment will take time to sink in, Huntington’s historic journey serves as a powerful reminder of human resilience and the strength of the spirit.
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