Speaking about his upcoming race to the South Pole alongside wounded war veterans, Prince Harry says he considers himself "incredibly lucky" to be participating in the extraordinary event.
In an interview at his base camp over the weekend, the prince described his feelings about the trek, saying that there's "no way" he can drop out, no matter what conditions he faces.
"I know it's slightly mad, but I've got four limbs and I'm completely fine – well almost fine up here," he said pointing to his head, smiling. "These guys have got all these issues and life-changing injuries that are really hard for them."
Harry is racing alongside a team of British veterans. A U.S. team and a Commonwealth team that includes two Canadians are also participating.
The race will see teams trek between 15 to 20 kilometres a day through freezing temperatures and strong winds in hopes of reaching the South Pole by Dec. 17.
The prince – who arrived at a military base in Antarctic last Friday -- said that despite the harsh conditions, he knows he can't quit.
"I try and think of it (as), well, if I'm given the opportunity it means I can actually help these guys out, whether it's awareness for them… then so what if it's -50 C? So what if it's 90-mile-an-hour winds? Occasionally you've got to put yourself through that for a good cause."
U.K.-based charity Walking with the Wounded organized the race. The charity seeks to help injured soldiers find careers outside the military, as well as draw attention to the challenges veterans face.
All the competing teams are raising money for military charities in their home countries.
Two Canadian soldiers, Cpl. Alexandre Beaudin D'Anjou and Master Cpl. Chris Downey are racing this year with the Commonwealth Team.
