Antarctic Rifleman
Antarctic Rifleman
Ian Hughes is a former Rifleman, deep sea diver, entrepreneur and philanthropist. In November 2025 he 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 him. It’s about service and giving back.
He is hoping to raise £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 he takes on the ice is for them.
Pulling a 100 kg sledge through temperatures as low as –40°C, over sastrugi and crevassed ice, he will spend 60 days alone with nothing but his own resilience and the knowledge that this journey carries a deeper purpose.
By supporting this expedition, you join you him 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 his progress, partner with him, and help reach his goal of £100,000 by donating at: