News Release

30 June 2022

Renowned British explorer ‘Polar Preet’ has announced her next challenging expedition – to become the first woman to complete a solo, unsupported crossing of Antarctica.

Through our association with Team Forces, Costain is proud to be sponsoring British Army medical officer Preet Chandi, MBE on the journey, which could make her a world record breaker.

Sam White, Natural Resources managing director said, “Preet’s courage, endurance and drive to continuously push boundaries is an inspiration to all of us. Costain fully supports her endeavour to break stereotypes and demonstrate what can be achieved when you have a clear vision and the right attitude to make it a reality. We are excited to be on this journey with her as she makes her mark in the history books.”

In January 2022 ‘Polar Preet,’ became the first woman of colour to ski solo to the South Pole. This next challenge is to cross Antarctica solo and unsupported which would ensure her place in history as one of the greatest living explorers.

Preet will be starting her journey at Hercules inlet on the inner coast of the Ronne Ice Shelf - the location where she started on her recent successful South Pole expedition. However, this time she will not be stopping at the South Pole, she will be heading on the second part of her journey to the inner coast of The Ross Ice Shelf via The Reedy Glacier.

‘I’m so grateful to have so many incredible sponsors on board. Even though I’m physically alone on the ice, I know I have so many supporters with me each step of the way. This expedition would not be possible without my sponsors, she said

Preet will be pulling her 120Kg pulk (sled) with all her kit and equipment for 75 days for over 1,000 miles, will face temperatures as low as -50°c and wind speeds of up to 60mph. Other sponsors include Fujitsu, Microsoft, Dell Technologies, Qioptiq, Amey, BMC, BMF, Boxxe, Atkins, Improbable, Sopra Steria, Ultra, Costain, Kromek and Punjab House.

For more information visit Polar Preet – Army Officer, Physiotherapist, Nordic Skier, Ultra-marathon Runner, Endurance Athlete

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