The Pole of Possibility: A Sit-Ski Journey Across Antarctica

The Pole of Possibility: A Sit-Ski Journey Across Antarctica

 

Paralympic gold medallist Karen Darke is preparing to publish a new book, The Pole of Possibility, telling the story of a groundbreaking expedition across Antarctica.

In 2022, Karen and a small team completed a 300 km journey across the Ross Ice Shelf, combining sit-ski and hand-cycle to reach a remote, unvisited point at 79°S, 79°W - the Pole of Possibility.

The book documents the full story of the expedition and the ideas behind it: exploring possibility, resilience, mindset, and connection with nature. It is suitable for adults and older teenagers, and focuses on the value of rediscovering what truly matters in life, especially when faced with challenge or change.

Karen became paralysed from the chest down after a climbing accident in her early 20s. Since then, her path has taken her through Paralympic medals and into some of the world’s most remote landscapes. This latest journey continues that evolution, moving beyond sport into inner exploration.

The Pole of Possibility is not just about Antarctica. It is about finding a deeper sense of self, and what Karen refers to as “inner gold”, qualities like courage, clarity and calm that come from within. The book also reflects on how nature, stillness, and time away from everyday life can help us reconnect to meaning and purpose.

The expedition team reached the Pole of Possibility in December 2022. It lies in a stunning and rarely visited area of Antarctica below the Mount Vinson massif. The journey was physically demanding, with the team travelling over 300 km across snow and ice.

All profits from the first publishing round of The Pole of Possibility will go to The Polar Academy, a Scottish charity that helps young people build confidence and resilience through Arctic exploration. The charity works with teenagers who are often overlooked, those experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem or lack of direction, and gives them the chance to develop new skills and belief through challenging outdoor experiences.

By supporting the book, readers will not only receive a signed copy (or a digital version), but will also help raise awareness and funds for The Polar Academy.

The aim is to publish The Pole of Possibility by October 2025.

More information can be found at: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-pole-of-possibility-book