Sophie Montagne is a member of the Antarctica Ice Maiden squad, who have been training for a very exciting adventure…
What does your adventure involve?
We’re aiming to be the first all-female team to ski coast-to-coast across Antarctica in November 2017. A journey of 1,700km that will take approx 75 days.
Why are you doing it?
We want to inspire ordinary women to take on their own challenge, no matter how big or small, and do something extraordinary.
Who are you going with?
The squad of 7 are all serving in the Army or Reserve and have been selected down from 250 applicants. Only 5 will travel to Antarctica but this is the toughest, most efficient and determined group of truly awesome women that I’ve ever met!
How have you prepared?
We’ve completed 7 weeks of training in Arctic Norway in the past 12 months, camping for up to 21 days on the ice, jumping into frozen lakes, sleeping in igloos and dragging sledges that weigh as much as we do. This summer we’ll be dragging tyres to imitate the drag of the sledge and will spend a lot of time in the gym!
Who is your role model/inspiration?
My team-mate Sandy @icemaidensandy is an inspiration to me. She’s been through some terrible times, including losing her boyfriend in Afghanistan, but she is the most positive, uncomplaining, modest and capable person who loves the outdoors and wants to help others to share that passion. Physically and mentally she’s an absolute power-house!
