Max Worsely is embarking on a challenging expedition in Antarctica, skiing 870 miles while pulling a 120kg sledge in extreme temperatures of -40 degrees Celsius. This journey is not just a physical challenge but a deeply personal one for Max. He is following in the footsteps of his late father, Henry, who tragically passed away while attempting the same feat a decade ago.
Max, now 31, along with his expedition partner Martin Nesse, will undertake the 60-day unsupported journey from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole, a mission known as the Onwards Expedition. Henry Worsely, a former SAS soldier, was only 30 miles away from completing the journey when he fell ill and later passed away at the age of 55.
For Max, this expedition is a way to honor his father’s memory and fulfill a shared dream they had of embarking on an Antarctic adventure together. He will carry his father’s diary from his last expedition, retracing his father’s path and seeking to understand his deep connection to Antarctica.
The training for this grueling mission has been rigorous, including polar courses in Norway and Chamonix to prepare for the challenging conditions. Max’s family, including his mother Joanna and sister Alicia, have been a source of support throughout his preparation.
Prince William has also shown his support for the expedition by becoming a patron, just as he did for Henry Worsely’s expedition in 2016. The prince commended Max for his courage and determination in following his father’s legacy and highlighted the importance of Antarctica to our planet’s health.
In addition to being a personal journey, the expedition aims to support organizations like the British Exploring Society and William’s Earthshot Prize. Max hopes to inspire young people to connect with nature and the outdoors, emphasizing the transformative power of the natural world on physical and mental wellbeing.
To learn more about the Onwards Expedition, visit www.onwards-expedition.com or follow @onwards_expedition on Instagram.
