SYDNEY - Two young Australians have walked into the history books by becoming the first team to ski unsupported from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole and back.
James Castrission, 29, and Justin Jones, 28, are ``physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted'', but ecstatic after completing the 2200-kilometre trek through Antarctica on Australia Day.
The pair were hoping to catch the last plane leaving the region yesterday, but conditions meant they were left sitting on the runway with the plane unable to land.
``We've both just collapsed on the ground, thinking what do you need to do to have a beer?'' Mr Castrission said from the runway.
``We've never been this exhausted, but we're really, really happy.''
The pair had an arduous 95 days, towing 160 kilograms of gear as they cross-country skied in minus 50 degree temperatures.
They begin their trek from Union Glacier Camp on October 16 with the aim of raising money for a youth cancer charity, often running low on food.
They ate the equivalent of 15 Big Macs a day to bulk up for the trip, but Mr Castrission said they had lost about 50 kilos between them during the trek.
``We're looking forward to a cool beer and a pie,'' he said.
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