Tim Williamson: plans to walk more than 2,000 miles

A British ultrarunner is preparing for his ultimate challenge: an unsupported walk to and from the North Pole.

Tim Williamson is a virtual unknown on the global adventure scene, but if successful his will become the longest, solo and unsupported expedition in the world.

The 25-year-old plans to start his trek on 13 January next year from Resolute Bay in northern Canada for a walk, without skis, of at least 3,540km (2,200 miles) lasting between 100 and 120 days.

The runner said it will be one of the most extreme tests of physical and mental robustness, battling perpetual darkness, loneliness and constant fatigue. He will also be racing against time, trying to complete the journey before the ice melts.

He said: “The majority fail because they aren’t built for walking long distances.

“This is the thing I’m specially built for. The North Pole holds a great amount of wonder to me, and as an ultrarunner, it is the ultimate challenge.”

Rob Swan, the first person to walk to the North and South Poles said: “What Tim is undertaking is truly one of the last great polar expeditions.

“I have watched his careful preparation; he can make it. Careful preparation helps luck, and on the Arctic Ocean you need some luck.”

Tim Williamson: 'I’m specially built for it'

Mr Williamson’s trek will be the first polar expedition to go from civilisation to civilisation. It will also be the first North Pole attempt in the age of flight without the use of a chartered aircraft.

Adrian Simpson, who is leading the team from Discover A Life Less Ordinary magazine,  which is co-ordinating the attempt, said: “This is a remarkable young British athlete attempting something so special that he could easily be the first and last person ever accomplish it.

“It’s going to be gripping stuff from start to finish.”

More details are on Tim Williamson’s blog.