“Pole of Independence” — Kazakhstan’s First Ski Expedition to the South Pole
In December 2016, the “Pole of Independence” expedition completed a 217-kilometre ski journey across Antarctica to the South Pole. Organised by the Kazakh Geographic Society, the project marked the 25th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence. The eleven-day journey became an important milestone in the country’s polar exploration history.
An expedition marking independence
“Pole of Independence” brought together sporting objectives and scientific work. Its wider programme included climbing Mount Vinson, skiing to the South Pole and conducting research in Antarctica.
The project took place under the auspices of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan. As its organiser, the Kazakh Geographic Society enabled Kazakh athletes and researchers to gain experience on the frozen continent. The ski journey was a particularly demanding part of the programme, requiring the team to travel through Antarctica’s interior while hauling the equipment and supplies they needed.
The team heading south
The Kazakh ski team comprised expedition leader Magzhan Sagimbayev, Yury Yushin, Ilyas Galimbekov and physician Daulet Sharipov. Experienced guide Lyudmila Korobeshko accompanied them along the route.
Each participant’s knowledge and preparation contributed to the shared task. Physical endurance had to be matched by navigation skills, equipment maintenance and attention to everyone’s condition. Far from familiar infrastructure, looking after one another became an essential part of daily life.
217 kilometres across the ice
The participants pulled sleds carrying food, tents, clothing and expedition equipment. According to the expedition diary, the sleds weighed between 50 and 65 kilograms.
Antarctica’s continuous summer daylight did not guarantee clear skies. Cloud cover and poor visibility made navigation more difficult, requiring checks with GPS and compass. Cold and wind added to the challenge, while broken ski bindings required repairs on the route.
Everyday activities took on greater importance in these conditions. Setting up camp, preparing food, resting and getting ready for the next stage structured the journey. Progress depended on completing these tasks consistently while remaining attentive to the needs of the group.
Reaching the goal on New Year’s Eve
The team reached the South Pole on 31 December 2016. Yury Yushin’s diary records a final day of approximately 32 kilometres. After hours of travel, the sight of Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station on the horizon signalled that the journey was approaching its end.
Arriving on New Year’s Eve gave the achievement particular meaning. The participants concluded Kazakhstan’s independence anniversary year at the southernmost point on Earth and sent greetings to people back home.
“Pole of Independence” was the result of preparation, practical experience and mutual trust. For the Kazakh Geographic Society, it became an example of what a shared goal can accomplish in a demanding environment. The expedition also added to Kazakhstan’s experience of polar travel, creating an opportunity to introduce Antarctica to a wider audience through the observations and experiences of its own explorers.