Prince William has shared a new video with a supportive message for two explorers preparing for a major expedition in Antarctica. Max Worsley and Martin Nesse will ski unsupported for 1,349 km across the continent this November.
The Expedition Route
Their journey will start at the edge of the continent, just north of Berkner Island, and finish at the Geographic South Pole. The pair will carry everything they need to survive while crossing the coldest, driest and most unforgiving environment on Earth.
Over the course of two months, they will face temperatures as low as -40°C, winds of up to 100mph and a rising elevation of 2,800m above sea level.
Prince William's Message
In a video posted to Instagram, Prince William said: "Max and Martin, I wanted to wish you the best of luck for your expedition across Antarctica in the coming weeks. Max, I was honored to support your father, Henry, during his extraordinary journey across those same snowy peaks. It is incredibly poignant to see you following in his tracks a decade later."
He added: "In doing so, you embody the same resilience, commitment and spirit that your father inspired in so many throughout his life. As you make the final preparations for this remarkable adventure, I wish you every success and look forward to tracking your progress. In the hardest moments, of which I am sure there will be many, know that you are not alone. We are thinking of you and willing you both on. Good luck."
Family Legacy
Max's father, Henry Worsley, was a polar explorer who died in 2016 while attempting to become the first person to cross Antarctica solo and unsupported, pursuing a dream linked to the legacy of his hero, Sir Ernest Shackleton.
The video was shared on the Onwards Expedition's official Instagram account. The caption read: "We're incredibly grateful to our Patron, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, for taking the time to send us such a thoughtful message ahead of our expedition across Antarctica. Having supported my father during his second and third expeditions, his words carry particular meaning for me as I follow my father's footsteps. As we prepare to ski 1,400km to the South Pole, it means a great deal to know we have his support and encouragement behind us. Thank you, Your Royal Highness. Onwards."
