“REMARKABLE” and “inspirational” – Redditch-based soldier Major Sandy Hennis made history this week, completing a grueling three-month trek with the Antarctica Ice Maiden team.
The six Ice Maidens, all serving in the British Army or Army Reserve, are the first all-female team to use muscle power alone to ski coast-to-coast across Antarctica.
The team covered almost 1,700km, pulling sledges and battling temperatures of -50°C and wind speeds of more than 60mph during their three-month journey.
The team even spent Christmas Day on the ice, before crossing the finish line on Saturday (January 20).
Leader of Redditch Borough Council, Coun Bill Hartnett said: “I have sent a congratulatory letter to Major Hennis on behalf of the council and the residents of Redditch on a truly remarkable achievement, and extended an invitation so we can congratulate her in person and hear more of this remarkable achievement of operation Ice Maiden.”
MP for Redditch, Rachel Maclean added: “Major Sandy Hennis is an absolute inspiration, not just to me, but to everyone here in Redditch.
“The whole community is so proud of her.
“I send her and the entire Ice Maiden team my warmest congratulations. It is an absolute privilege to be the MP for such an inspirational woman.”
Major Hennis is a Reservist officer with 37 Signal Regiment based in Redditch and works in an employer support role.
