Local adventurer, Jordan Wylie MBE, has reached the summit of an unnamed, unclimbed Antarctic peak, marking the first major milestone of his Antarctic Odyssey expedition. The achievement, confirmed today (Friday 5 December) in a message from the ice, makes him the first recorded person in history to stand on the mountain’s summit.
The climb took place on Day 14 of his journey through one of the most remote regions of Queen Maud Land, where temperatures have dropped below minus 30 degrees and weather windows are short and unpredictable. Wylie described the ascent as “true exploration in its rawest form”, standing on a mountain that has never had human footprints on it until now.
The expedition, which Jordan is undertaking solo and unsupported in the deep field, aims to explore untouched terrain, document unmapped features and attempt multiple first ascents. He is preparing to move into Phase 2 of the challenge in the coming days, weather permitting.
Jordan’s journey has also passed a significant fundraising milestone. On Day 13 he confirmed that more than £60,000 had been raised for the Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK, the official charity partner of the expedition. He credited donors, supporters and sponsors for helping him provide life-changing opportunities for young people across the UK.
He also paid tribute to Wes Bunch from Antarctic Logistics, who has over three decades of leadership experience on some of the world’s most dangerous mountains. Jordan said the success of the first ascent “simply wouldn’t have happened without him”.
Speaking from camp, he dedicated the newly climbed peak to young people who may be struggling, saying he wanted them to “dream bigger than your doubts” and to “be the difference that makes a difference”.
More updates are expected this weekend as the expedition continues into its next phase. He has also been shortlisted for Outdoor Personality of the Year in National Awards which closes this weekend.