Antarctic Rifleman

I’m Ian Hughes – a former Rifleman, deep sea diver, entrepreneur and philanthropist. In November 2025, I will set out alone, unsupported, and unassisted to ski 911 km (492 nautical miles) across Antarctica on the legendary Messner Route to the Geographic South Pole.

This challenge is not about records for me. It’s about service and giving back.
I’m raising £100,000 for veterans, supporting charities like the Rifleman’s Benevolent Trust, the RGJ Association North West Branch (supporting veteran charities in the North West), and initiatives such as Care for Casualties and Always a Rifleman. These programmes help veterans battling PTSD, depression, and the invisible wounds of war — men and women who, after serving their country, now fight their toughest battles at home.

Every step I take on the ice is for them.
Pulling a 100 kg sledge through temperatures as low as –40°C, over sastrugi and crevassed ice, I’ll spend 60 days alone with nothing but my own resilience and the knowledge that this journey carries a deeper purpose.

By supporting this expedition, you join me on the journey.
Your contribution funds life‑saving support for veterans, while helping write a story of British endurance, service, and hope — a story led by a soldier, an entrepreneur, and a philanthropist determined to make a difference.

Together, we can turn this extreme adventure into a legacy of impact.

👉 Follow my progress, partner with me, and help reach our goal of £100,000.