When she became the first woman of color to complete a solo and unassisted voyage to the South Pole, Captain Preet Chandi wanted to show that “no matter where we are, no matter what we look like, we can achieve what we want “.
Now, “Polar Preet” has her eyes set on a bigger challenge: becoming the first woman to complete a solo and unsupported journey across the continent of Antarctica.
Not content with the 700-mile trek in 40 days just months ago, the 33-year-old is currently preparing for the “second phase” of her pioneering tour, which will involve traveling more than 1,000 miles at temperatures down to minus 50ºC .
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Preet will sail at wind speeds of up to 60 mph as he pulls a sled next to his equipment during the coast-to-coast journey, which is expected to take about 75 days.
In an Instagram post announcing the expedition, he said, “Why did I go to Antarctica in the first place and why am I going back?
“I wanted to show that no matter where we are from, no matter how we appear, we can get what we want.
“I want to inspire others to push their limits and encourage them to believe in themselves. I want to break that glass ceiling!”
The Army physiotherapist will take a period of leave at the end of the year as she tries to re-record her name in the ledgers.
In a blog post detailing his preparation, Chandi confessed that he was “doing so many things now that I wouldn’t have thought I was capable of even five years ago … don’t limit yourself.”
Your workout regimen includes cardiovascular and strength training, as well as tire drag to replicate the weight of your sled.