The Coldest Journey

[Penfold]

Had the distinct please in meeting Sir Ranulph Fiennes today as he embarks on his latest expedition - the world's first ever attempt to cross the Antarctic in winter.

http://www.thecoldestjourney.org/

Sir Ranulph Fiennes is leading a team of explorers to conquer the last  great polar challenge: crossing Antarctica in winter. Their remarkable  attempt aims to raise $10m for Seeing is Believing with match-funding  from Standard Chartered, provide crucial scientific data and form the  basis of an invaluable education programme.

I spent time on board the ship they're taking to the South Pole which is moored alongside HMS Belfast by London Bridge and had a tour followed with a one-to-one with Ran talking about his trip, his motivations and goals.

Have to say he was one of the nicest, charismatic and truly decent chaps I've had the pleasure to meet and it was both humbling and inspiring to see his passion and drive and pure sense of adventure.

If you have a few coins spare, Seeing is Believing is a great cause: http://www.thecoldestjourney.org/home/charity/

[T-Bag]

I believe my dad has met him a few years back and said essentially the same things about him.

Went through most of the donation and got put off by the lack of paypal or google wallet. I understand they take a cut, but I'm hesitant to type card details in to more sites than I have to these days.

I have to say that it's a brave thing to try. I suspect there's a reason why nobody has done it before, and to do it for charity deserves respect.

[Tutonic]

The genuine article, and hard as nails. Made out of diamond. From Newcastle.

[smilodon]

Spoke briefly to Pen today about his visit. All would have been well had he not gone and mentioned the fact that he might have been able to blag bringing me along to take some photo's, but didn't think to ask. Imagine getting to photograph the man himself.

Pen, you Sir are a bounder of the first order :narnar:

[Gortex]

I think the fact that he is now a pensioner and still doing these exploration and challenges is truly incredible. Most of us struggle just going to get some milk from the local co-op on a rainy day.

Big respect to the man!!!