The two adventurers' rapid progress in the endless white expanse of Antarctica is made difficult by strong headwinds and so-called Sastrugis, ice-hardened, streamlined snow elevations. They constantly have to take small detours. In addition, Arved Fuchs' feet started to cause problems after 300 kilometers. Bloodshot blisters require makeshift medical care. When the rocky peaks of the Thiel Mountains appear on the horizon, both men feel hopeful because a segment has been completed. It turns out that Arved Fuchs and Reinhold Messner are different characters who have different views on walking rhythm and speed. Conflicts arise. Nevertheless, they pulled themselves together to reach the US Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station in time for New Year's Eve 1989, where they received an euphoric welcome from the researchers stationed there.