Virgin Global Row: Wedlake Bell sponsors first ever solo row around Antarctica

Olly Hicks started his most ambitious expedition to date, the first ever solo row around Antarctica, from Tasmania on 23 January 2009. His boat "The Flying Carrot" was designed, trialled and modified to cope with the demands of the Southern Ocean, one of the world's most challenging environments during two years. The journey, covering some 18,000 miles, is expected to last 18 months and will be made in two stages, with a break in South Georgia to avoid the worst of winter weather in the Southern Ocean. Olly's progress can be followed on his website www.virginglobalrow.com, where further details on the expedition can be found.

The seasoned adventurer aims to raise £1,000,000 for the children's charity Hope and Homes for Children. The charity works with children, their families and communities across Central and Eastern Europe and Africa, to ensure that children grow up in an environment where they have the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Donations can be made via www.justgiving.com/virginglobalrow.

To discover Olly's thoughts about his extraordinary adventure take a few minutes to check out our vodcasts which were filmed just before his departure, together with his father Charles Hicks.