British Army veteran and Guinness World Record holder Harpreet Chandi, famously known as “Polar Preet,” has unveiled her latest challenge: a solo, unsupported trek to the North Pole. If successful, Chandi will become the first woman ever to complete this gruelling journey alone.
Scheduled for March 2025, the 500-mile expedition will see Chandi battling shifting sea ice, exhaustion, and temperatures plunging to -50°C. The monumental journey is expected to take around 70 days, with only a slim 5–10% chance of success.
Breaking Barriers Once Again
Chandi, who holds records as the fastest woman to complete a solo unsupported ski expedition to the South Pole, is no stranger to pushing limits. Her previous feats include traversing 1,130 kilometres of Antarctic ice in just 31 days, 13 hours, and 19 minutes—a Guinness World Record achievement.
Speaking about her new challenge, Chandi said:
“No females have done [the challenge] for a reason. It’s insanely hard—and not very many men have done it either. But for me, it’s about trying something. Even if you have a small chance of making the end goal, it’s worth having that journey.”
Chandi also highlighted the personal and symbolic importance of her mission:
“Every time I do trips like this, [I think] it is all just so much bigger than me. How amazing is it to go and try something that hasn’t been done?”
Rigorous Preparation
To prepare for this demanding expedition, Chandi will embark on an intense strength and fitness training programme. This includes building an additional 15 kilograms of muscle and fat to sustain her through the extreme physical challenges.
Her journey will commence from Ellesmere Island in Canada, a starting point known for its brutal conditions and unforgiving terrain.
A Legacy of Extraordinary Achievements
Chandi’s remarkable career spans 16 years in the British Army, during which she became a trailblazer for Asian women in polar exploration. Her accomplishments include two Guinness World Records: being the first Asian woman to complete a solo ski expedition to the South Pole in 2022 and her record-breaking time on the Antarctic expedition.
After retiring from military service in 2024, Chandi continues to inspire by shattering stereotypes and redefining what is possible. Her upcoming expedition to the North Pole will be yet another chapter in her legacy of resilience, determination, and groundbreaking achievements.
