Arctic Rifleman

I’m Ian Hughes, a former Rifleman, deep-sea diver and entrepreneur, raising £100,000 to support veterans and their mental health.

On Christmas Day 2025, I reached the Geographic South Pole after skiing solo, unsupported and unassisted across Antarctica along the Messner Route. In January 2026, I summited Mount Vinson, completing six of the Seven Summits.


The journey continues. I’m aiming to climb Aconcagua in January 2027, followed by a full expedition from Siberia to the Geographic North Pole with polar explorer Eric Larsen in spring 2027, subject to final confirmation of logistics.


The North Pole expedition would involve approximately 1,000 km across the moving sea ice of the Arctic Ocean, travelling as part of a guided team with planned resupplies. For close to two months, we would negotiate pressure ridges, fractured ice and open water on the journey to 90° North.


These challenges have a purpose beyond reaching a summit or a pole. As a former Royal Green Jacket, I want to give back to the community that helped shape me. My fundraising supports veterans through organisations and programmes including The Rifles Benevolent Trust, the Royal Green Jackets Association North West Branch and Always a Rifleman program.


Their work supports veterans and families facing hardship, PTSD, depression and the lasting effects of service.


Charitable donations support the beneficiaries of this appeal, rather than my expedition costs. Whether you donate, share the appeal or introduce someone who could help, your support matters.


Thank you to everyone who has supported the journey so far. Please help me reach the £100,000 goal and make a lasting difference for those who have served.