Jockey races to Pole

The Osborne Studio Gallery on Motcomb Street, which specialises in sporting and racing art, hosted a welcome home party for jockey Richard Dunwoody on his return from the South Pole. He was joined by novelist Jilly Cooper and commentator Sir Peter O’Sullevan.

The champion jockey, known for his partnership with horse Desert Orchid and Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup wins, has already conquered the North Pole. He reached the South Pole in January via a hazardous route that had only previously been attempted, unsuccessfully, by Sir Ernest Shackleton in 1914-15.

Dunwoody arrived on his 44th birthday, after a gruelling 680 miles and 48 days.With his companion, American explorer Doug Stoup, he faced treacherous crevasse fields, one of which nearly claimed Stoup’s life.There were regular whiteout conditions, temperatures of minus 45 and both men lost over two stone in body weight.

“This has been the hardest thing I have ever undertaken, both physically and mentally, with every day a 12 hour slog, often uphill, on skis and pulling cumbersome sleds (17 stone at the outset) that just seemed to get heavier as we got lighter,”said Dunwoody.“I am exhausted. To finally arrive at the pole is indescribable and my greatest achievement.”

Photographs of the trip were auctioned off at the Osborne Studio Gallery, to raise money for Richard’s official charities:SPARKS, Spinal Research and Racing Welfare.