Army officer solo trekking across Antarctica in 2021

An Army officer is taking on one of her biggest challenge to date - by solo trekking across Antarctica.

Captain Preet Chandi is planning her three-month-long icy adventure for winter 2021. 

Drawing on inspiration from the likes of explorer Ernest Shackleton, Preet hopes that her challenge will inspire the next generation. She said:

“I want other people to realise that something that might seem like it’s out of reach isn’t impossible. I want to inspire people to believe in themselves.”

Challenges are no stranger to Preet, who has already completed hikes and climbs all over the world, including Kenya, Peru, Nepal, Bolivia and Iceland to name just a few.

Preet first joined the Army Reserves before transitioning into the regular service to fully immerse herself in Army life.

During lockdown earlier this year, Preet took on a 24-hour step-up challenge to raise money for the NHS after the London marathon was cancelled. Support came from her current Army unit, as well as her Reserves unit, with people taking the challenge on alongside her from their own homes.

The support Preet has received so far for her Antarctic challenge means, although the trek next winter will be alone, she has a huge support network behind her. She said:

“Yes it’s a solo challenge but you’re never really on your own, so many people backing you that got you there in the first place.”

With temperatures of -50c, wind speeds of up to 60mph and 900+ miles of walking, it is no small challenge that Preet is taking on.

To help prepare for the arduous trek Preet is planning to complete tyre drags around the UK to mimic what it will be like. When she is doing the trek she will be pulling a sled with her supplies in it. 

Preet's journey to prepare for the Antarctic can be followed on her website and on Instagram @polarpreet