Ali Rıza Bilal, a former Olympic athlete and Ironman titleholder, made history on November 21, 2024, by becoming the first Turkish individual to reach the South Pole solo. His journey spanned 51 days, covering a distance of 933 kilometers under extreme conditions, with temperatures dropping to minus 40 degrees Celsius.
During his expedition, Bilal followed the Messner Route while hauling a 100-kilogram sled. He noted that only nine individuals have completed such a solo trek in history. Throughout the 51 days, he faced numerous challenges, including equipment failures. He recounted that during the second week, his ski bindings broke, and he had to repair two of his poles. Additionally, his sonar panel and thermos also broke, adding to the difficulties he encountered.
Despite these setbacks, Bilal remained determined to raise the Turkish flag at the South Pole and sing the İstiklal Marşı (Independence March). He expressed immense joy and pride in achieving this milestone, stating, 'I wanted to wave our flag as someone who walked alone at the Pole and crossed the continent. I succeeded after 51 days, and I am truly happy and proud of this accomplishment.'
Bilal also highlighted the fears he faced during his journey, particularly the risk of losing his fingers to the extreme cold. Since completing his trek, he has found it hard to believe he has achieved such a significant feat.