Following in Worsley's Footsteps

16 October 2018

British Army Captain Lou Rudd was interviewed on Radio 4 this morning about his impending unsupported solo crossing of Antarctica, by the same route on which Lt Col Henry Worsley (Grafton 78) lost his life in 2016. The journey of approximately 1,770 km runs from Berkner Island to the Ross Ice Shelf via the South Pole. Captain Rudd will depart in a week’s time and the crossing is expected to take two months to complete.

To listen to the interview, click here and scroll to minute 55.00: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0000qks

Last year, Captain Rudd led a five-man British Army team across Antarctica from Hercules Inlet to the Ross Ice Shelf, with a resupply at the Pole.

Captain Rudd gives this message on his blog: “A dear friend of mine, Lt Col Henry Worsley, MBE, Polar Medal, tragically lost his life attempting this journey in 2016. My first ever polar journey was with Henry and he taught me all of the skills required as well as inspiring me further. As a fitting tribute to the legacy of Henry I am hoping to go to Antarctica to complete his journey.

I am under no illusions as to the enormity of the task. Just raising the necessary funds to get to the start line will be a huge challenge, let alone the journey itself. However, I genuinely feel having served for many years with Henry and shared a tent with him for 3 months in 2011/12 while skiing to the South Pole, that I am the right person for this task. I’m sure he will be looking out for me throughout. His wife Joanna has very graciously given me her blessing and will be supporting the build up and preparation as well as watching the journey unfold.”

We wish Captain Rudd every success with his expedition. To follow his progress visit his website: www.lourudd.com