Congratulations Ben

Almost two months ago, Ben Saunders set out from Cape Arktichevsky in Russia with one goal in mind - to ski across the Arctic Ocean solo and unsupported, and in doing so becoming the first person to achieve this. The Serco TransArctic Expedition. Today he reached the North Pole.

And what a journey it's been so far. I've had way more than I bargained for - the conditions have been worse than ever and I've had to dig deeper than I imagined possible just to keep going. My motivation and my goals have changed drastically - at the start, this was about competition. Making a statement. I've come to realise that the only competition was with myself, and that the only thing I'm 'conquering' is my own self-doubt. The Arctic changes every year - skiing to the North Pole isn't like running the 100 metres. It's not even like climbing Everest, or skiing to the South Pole, because it's getting tougher and tougher. Making a solo and unsupported ski crossing? I'm wary of using the word impossible, but I think it comes close. I hope someone proves me wrong.

Congratulations to you Ben! Your bravery, perseverance and unmatcheable determination have inspired thousands and will continue to do so for years to come.

I read earlier on ThePoles.com that fellow adventurer South African Mike Horn is simulataneously attempting a high speed circumnavigation (20 000km) of the Arctic - the Arktos Expedition. As with the Serco TransArctic expedition, you can follow his progress on his website.