Ice Maiden Sandy set for challenge of a lifetime

Cannock based Sandy Hennis, a Reservist officer with 37 Signal Regiment based in Redditch, is one sixth of the Ice Maidens, a team of brave female explorers who are aiming to become the first team of women to ski coast-to-coast across Antarctica.

The epic trek will see her join up with five other serving members of the British Army and Army Reserve, who she will spend roughly 70 days with unsupported on one of the toughest terrains in the world.

The team will cover 1,700km, battling temperatures of -50c and winds of up to 60mph.

Sandy, who is the oldest Ice Maiden at 36 years old, said: "It sounds obvious but the thing I am most scared of is the cold.

"We have been training in Norway for weeks at a time in temperatures of up to -20c but this is taking things to another level and it is going to be such a long time out there.

"I have always been quite an outdoors person but this is a major challenge even for me."

Sandy has been training since September 2015, including dragging a 4x4 tyre around Cannock Chase.

She flew out with the rest of her team to Chile yesterday, where they will spend a week before setting off on their challenge.

The group were whittled down to just six after 250 people originally applied to take part three years ago.

The group is formed of major Nics Wetherill, of the Royal Army Medical Corps, major Natalie Taylor, also of the Royal Army Medical Corps, lieutenant Jenni Stephenson of the Royal Artillery, captain Zanna Baker, also of the Royal Artilery and lance sergeant Sophie Montagne of the Honourable Artillery Company.

Sandy said: "None of us knew each other before this but I think I can speak for everyone when I say I can't imagine a better group of people to be taking on this challenge with.

"We all have different personality traits which will help but we all know each other so well now, we really need to be in sync with each others minds and I think we have reached that point.

"Everyone is so hard working and professional."

Sandy will miss Christmas with her family and boyfriend Will but says she can't wait to see Antarctica for herself.

She said: "I think it is just going to be beautiful out there and I think that first moment is something I will never forget.

"It really is mother nature at its finest.

"I am sad to be missing Christmas but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, plus we have already had a mini fake Christmas back home."

It is hoped that the team will inspire a new era of female expeditionary spirit and encourage women and girls to get outdoors.

Sandy said: "I have always done outdoor challenges and I have to say it is noticeable that there isn't that many women who take on challenges like myself.

"I want women to know what we are capable of and to push themselves.

"I would also like to go to schools when I return and tell youngsters about the beauty of exploring the world."