Spectra Group Backs Sam Cox’s World Record-Breaking Antarctic Adventure

Trailblazing a 2000km Solo Antarctic Journey

Spectra Group, renowned for their prowess in secure voice, data and satellite communication systems, has just announced a thrilling partnership with Team Forces. They are the new sponsors of ‘Frozen Dagger’, the daring solo Antarctic crossing project led by Sam Cox, a former Royal Marine. This venture, scheduled to launch later this year, aims to break the world record for the longest unsupported solo Antarctic crossing.

Team Forces, a dedicated group that rallies funding from sponsorship and donations from defense sector firms, is on a mission to foster social development across the armed forces community. They achieve this by endorsing sports, challenge, and adventure projects.

Braving Antarctica’s Extreme Wilderness

Antarctica, our planet’s fifth-largest continent, may appear tranquil from afar but up close it is a formidable icy wilderness. Spanning over 14 million square miles during the winter months, the hostile land experiences temperatures as low as -50 degrees Celsius and winds tearing across the terrain at 200 miles per hour. With towering peaks reaching 14,000 feet, it remains one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth. The ‘Frozen Dagger’ project is hence a true testament to both physical and mental endurance.

Image: Sam Cox – The face behind the Frozen Dagger Solo Unsupported Antarctic Record Crossing Attempt. Image courtesy of Chris Shirley at Haus of Hiatus

Setting Off for the Unknown

Come November 2023, Sam Cox will dare to traverse the icy expanse, a journey that spans 2000 kilometers. Going solo and unsupported, Sam will need to lug all necessary provisions and equipment for the grueling 75-day expedition on his pulk. Surviving on 7,000 calories a day while battling the unforgiving climate, he aims to cover a route more than 500 kilometers longer than any before undertaken by an unsupported solo explorer.

Only two other adventurers have made it through a solo unsupported crossing of Antarctica. Sam’s journey will commence from the coast of Berkner Island and culminate at the base of the Reedy glacier, passing via the South Pole. If successful, this endeavor will not only shatter records but also secure a place in the Guinness World Records for the longest solo unsupported Antarctic crossing.

A Scientific Expedition in its Core

Throughout his time in Antarctica, Sam intends to gather valuable data about the impacts of the harsh environment on his physical and mental state. This information will contribute significantly to scientific research in fields like human performance, sleep patterns, and stress responses in extreme conditions. Partnering with the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF), Sam’s endeavor will also provide insights on emotional regulation strategies in severe environments, thus informing future space exploration.

Words from the Key Players

On this momentous sponsorship, Simon Davies, CEO of Spectra Group, expressed his enthusiasm and pride. As an Armed Forces Covenant Gold employer and a veteran himself, Simon finds it gratifying to give back to Forces sport and adventure training.

He noted: “After hearing Sam talk about his ambitious endeavour at a Team Forces event and had insight into the incredible challenge he was committing to, it was only right for Spectra Group to pledge our support. We are thrilled to be part of this project and wish Sam all the best in his training, preparations, and, of course, his world record attempt.”

Sam Cox reciprocated the sentiment, warmly welcoming Spectra Group as a sponsor of the ‘Frozen Dagger’ project. “I’m delighted to welcome Spectra Group as a sponsor of the Frozen Dagger project. This amazing Antarctic expedition has been in the planning for over three years, and it is down to the fantastic backing of such sponsors that have made this record-breaking crossing possible. Thank you to Simon and the Spectra Group team for your support” he said.

For more information or interview requests, please contact:

Gareth Baker Director – PR & Media | Chamois Tel: +44 (0) 7798 682644 E mail: [email protected]

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