British Explorer Perseveres in Antarctica

BRITISH explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes has completed a third of his planned crossing of Antarctica and is 200 miles from the South Pole, an expedition spokesman said yesterday.

Sir Fiennes and his companion Michael Stroud are more than 50 days into the 2,200 mile trek, which they hope will raise $3.1 million for charity.

The two men are attempting to make the first crossing of the continent on foot. It would be the longest unassisted polar journey ever made. Fiennes and Mr. Stroud are dragging 400-pound sleds behind them during the estimated 100-day crossing.

"They say they are in very good physical condition and pleased with the progress," spokesman David Harrison said.

He said they were close to the schedule that they had early on set for themselves despite difficult surface conditions for hauling the sleds which are carrying supplies.