THE EXPEDITION
In November 2017, record-breaking polar explorer Ben Suanders will set out to make the first solo and unsupported crossing of Antarctica. This west-to-east traverse from Berkner Island to the Ross Ice Shelf via the South Pole and the Shackleton Glacier was planned by Ben’s close friend Lt Col Henry Worsley, who nearly completed the expedition before falling ill and passing away in hospital in Chile in January 2016. The journey remains unfinished.
TESTING A NEW TIMEPIECE
Bremont has worked with Ben for many years and particularly on his last expedition which saw him complete the longest human-powered polar journey in history, an incredible 1,800 mile trip, and for which Bremont developed the purpose built Terra Nova Watch. The now sold-out Limited Edition had to be able to withstand the extreme climate conditions of the South Pole, being worn on the outside of Ben’s jacket to serve as a crucial navigational device with its GMT hand. Bremont watches are designed to be fit-for-purpose in the most severe places on earth, they are designed to be Tested Beyond Endurance. To that end the company is thrilled to be supporting Ben’s next venture, the Trans-Antarctic Solo Expedition, and to be working with him on the testing and development of a new prototype watch.
Bremont Co-Founder, Giles English; “It has been a real privilege working with Ben over the years, he has an unrivalled list of polar achievements and to have him testing our watches out in the field is absolutely fantastic. Nick and I are passionate ourselves about polar history and greatly admired explorers like Scott; to continue supporting Ben in making history is something we’re very proud to do. The Terra Nova watch was a brilliant success so we’re looking forward to unveiling what we’ve been working on when Ben safely returns in 2018. We wish Ben the best of luck, there’s truly no one better placed to tackle this incredible feat.”
"A RELIABLE TIMEPIECE IS A VITAL PIECE OF EQUIPMENT ON A POLAR EXPEDITION, AND BREMONT'S WATCHES HAVE BEEN TRIED AND TESTED IN THE MOST HOSTILE OF ENVIRONMENTS."
Ben Saunders; “I am delighted to continue to be a Bremont brand ambassador. Bremont designed the bespoke Terra Nova watch for my 2013/2014 Scott Expedition, and I am excited to be testing a prototype of a new limited-edition watch during my Trans-Antarctic Solo Expedition. A reliable timepiece is a vital piece of equipment on a polar expedition, and Bremont’s watches have been tried and tested in the most hostile of environments.”
Ben is proud to be supporting The Endeavour Fund, part of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, which supports wounded, injured and sick veterans through providing opportunities in sport and adventurous challenge. Ben is dedicated to continuing the efforts of Henry Worsley, who was raising funds for the Endeavour Fund when he died in Antarctica. Henry’s legacy raised over £500,000 for the charity, and Ben is determined to continue this fundraising in memory of him.
The expedition will start in early November 2017, and Ben’s progress will be broadcast online in real time, at bensaunders.com and on social media (@polarben). The expedition has been made possible with the support of Canada Goose. The leading outerwear brand, which has a 60-year history developing products for people working, living and exploring the harshest places on earth, will also be supplying Ben with customised kit for his expedition. The project has additional support from Land Rover.
Duration: +/- 65 days alone in Antarctica, including Christmas and New Year
Ambient temperature range: Zero to -50 degrees centigrade
Sledge weight: 125kg at start of expedition
Altitude: Between sea level and 3,100 metres
Calories consumed: 6,250 per day
Changes of underwear: 2
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