After 71 days, more than 900 miles – and only 30 miles from his ultimate goal – British explorer Henry Worsley succumbed to severe exhaustion and dehydration in the cold, desolate Antarctic tundra.
Worsley was attempting to become the first person to ever cross the Antarctic unaided.
Inspired by the failed expedition of Ernest Shackleton almost a century ago, Worsley’s epic charity mission raised more than $100,000 for the Endeavour Fund, a charity founded to help the recovery of injured servicemen and women. According to Shackletonsolo.org, Worsley was 913 miles into his unsupported, unassisted walk when he decided to call it quits on January 24th.
“The 71 days alone on the Antarctic with over 900 statute miles covered and a gradual grinding down of my physical endurance finally took its toll today, and it is with sadness that I report it is journey’s end – so close to my goal.”
He was picked up by Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions a short time later, suffering from exhaustion and dehydration. He was flown to a hospital in Punta Arenas, where he was found to be also suffering from a bacterial infection and, despite top medical attention, he later passed away.
Worsley leaves behind a wife and two children.
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Patron of the Shackleton Solo Expedition, said, ““Harry and I are very sad to hear of the loss of Henry Worsley. He was a man who showed great courage and determination and we are incredibly proud to be associated with him. Even after retiring from the Army, Henry continued to show selfless commitment to his fellow servicemen and women, by undertaking this extraordinary Shackleton solo expedition on their behalf.
“We have lost a friend, but he will remain a source of inspiration to us all, especially those who will benefit from his support to the Endeavour Fund. We will now make sure that his family receives the support they need at this terribly difficult time.”
