How British-Sikh Army Medic Set New Record For Solo Antarctic Skiing

British Sikh Army medic Harpreet Chandi, fondly known as Polar Preet, has etched her name in the history of polar exploration by claiming to be the fastest woman to ski solo across Antarctica. Covering an astounding 1,130 km in just 31 days, 13 hours, and 19 minutes, Chandi has left an indelible mark on the icy expanse of the southernmost continent.

This remarkable feat not only adds another feather to Chandi's cap but also propels her into the spotlight as the fastest woman to conquer the icy expanse.

The Record-Breaking Expedition

Polar Preet's solo expedition commenced on November 26, departing from the Hercules Inlet on the Ronne Ice Shelf. Battling the unforgiving Antarctic conditions, she reached the South Pole at 2:24 am UK time on December 28. The challenging trek demanded resilience, as Chandi skied for an average of 12 to 13 hours a day, pulling a 75-kg sled containing all the essentials for survival.

By reaching the South Pole at 2.24 am UK time on December 28, Polar Preet claims to have outpaced the previous record holder, Canadian Caroline Cote, by an impressive margin of one day, 14 hours, and 34 minutes. 

Setting the Stage: Previous Achievements

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This triumph follows Chandi's earlier groundbreaking exploits, where she became the first woman of color to complete a solo and unsupported 700-mile Antarctic journey to the South Pole in 2021. Having already broken two Guinness World Records for polar exploration, Chandi now sets her sights on a third, awaiting verification from the Guinness World Records.

Chandi's Reflections

Speaking from the South Pole, a tired yet triumphant Chandi shared, “I’m glad I made it. This was completely different from my last expedition... I pushed myself to my limits on my last expedition; a speed attempt is completely different.” The 34-year-old medic, who is currently on a career break from military service, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, calling Antarctica an amazing place that allowed her a safe passage.

Chandi's approach to the expedition was marked by resilience and a focus on what she could control. She emphasized, “I couldn’t control the conditions -- the blistering sun, the whiteouts, the temperatures of minus 30 degrees Celsius, but I can control how I dealt with them. Just keep taking it one step at a time.”

Her positive mindset and determination reflect not only in her triumphs but also in her recent accolades, including being named Member of the British Empire and 'Woman of the Year' at the Women in Defence Awards 2022.

Beyond personal achievements, Chandi sees her expeditions as a means to inspire others. She returned to Antarctica not merely to push her own boundaries but to encourage others to face their challenges and break their barriers. “One of my biggest motivations in those dark times on the ice is the thought of inspiring others to face their own challenges,” she shared.

The story of her solo ski across Antarctica is not just a personal triumph but an invitation for all to dream big, face challenges head-on, and emerge victorious against the odds.