World record-holder Polar Preet announces the end of her 16-year military career
After a distinguished 16-year career in the British Army, world record-holder and adventurer Polar Preet is leaving the military.
Captain Harpreet 'Polar Preet' Chandi is the fastest woman to have completed a solo unsupported ski expedition to the South Pole.
But her career in the Armed Forces is now over.
"The end of an era. I've been in the Army for a total of 16 years and that time has come to an end," Capt Chandi said.
"In 2008, I saw a sign for the British Army in Derby city centre and ended up joining the Territorial Army where I joined as a private soldier. My first experience of 'camping' was putting up a basha.
"The Territorial Army became the Army Reserves, we changed from DPM to MTP and a lot of Velcro. I loved it so much that I decided to join the Regular Army.
"A big part of me grew up in the Army. I have loved being part of this incredible community, I have learnt so much and thank those that have supported me."
Capt Chandi covered the 1,130km of Antarctic ice in 31 days, 13 hours and 19 minutes during her solo unsupported expedition.
She is also a two-time Guinness World Record-holder, for completing her expedition and being the first Asian female to complete a solo ski expedition to the South Pole in 2022.
In 2023, the former medical officer was named Explorer of the Year by the Scientific Exploration Society.
"The last couple of years, I have been taking unpaid leave to do expeditions and I've been on my career break over the last year," Capt Chandi explained.
"I'm not planning an expedition this year, but there is so much I want to do. And though I have loved being part of the Army, it is just not possible to do both.
"Although I'll no longer be serving, the values and lessons I've learned during my time in the Army will always be a part of who I am.
"Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey."
Related topics
Join Our Newsletter
