A South African is part of a groundbreaking expedition preparing the world’s first Obstacle Course Race in Antarctica.
One of the obstacles ready to go into place… It will be used twice, first for rings and then as monkey bars/Image: Supplied
Worlds Iconic, a South African owned and Dubai based events company, is known for creating adventure driven experiences in extraordinary destinations. Its latest project takes the sport of OCR to one of the most remote environments on Earth.
To bring the event to life, Worlds Iconic assembled a specialised operations team tasked with designing and facilitating this unprecedented challenge. One of the key team members is Travis Hesom, a Mooi River resident and staff member at Treverton College. He completed a 30 hour journey to the frozen continent via Punta Arenas in Chile.
Travis Hesom Treverton College and the Old Trevertonians’ Association (OTA), Marketing and Alumni Officer/Image: Supplied
The team worked alongside Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions, recognised as one of the most experienced operators in the region and a long standing supporter of exploration on the continent.
The race will unfold on the snow tracks surrounding Union Glacier Camp in the shadow of Mount Rosso. The planned course covers a total of 10 kilometres and includes 10 obstacles that athletes must overcome.
An overview of the route and the obstacles/Image: Supplied
These range from a multi rig with monkey bars and rings to balance beams, off set steps and island jumps. True to the Antarctic setting, the event also incorporates a sled pull, an ice carry and a soft snow section.
Athletes from the USA, the UK and Switzerland are expected to take on the course. The start date will depend on the best weather window between 9 and 12 December. Conditions can shift quickly in Antarctica, which makes timing crucial.
Treverton College has a growing connection to the region. In 2023 the school’s head boy, Kai Broom, was one of 12 students selected to join the Matrics in Antarctica expedition. The latest venture adds another chapter to the institution’s link with polar exploration.
Trevor the Treverton College School mascot travels to Antarctica/Image: Supplied
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