Kate backing for Chandi

PRINCESS of Wales Kate Middleton is formally supporting the upcoming expedition of Captain Preet Chandi (above) across Antarctica.

Chandi, popularly known as Polar Preet, an officer and physiotherapist serving in the British Army currently, is hoping to become the first woman to cross all of the ice-covered continent on her own.

Buckingham Palace confirmed the news of royal patronage on Tuesday (25). The 40-year-old Kate spoke over the phone the same day to wish her luck on her upcoming journey covering 1,000 miles.

Last winter, the explorer made history by becoming the first woman to make a solo trip to the South Pole, trekking a distance of 700 miles over 40 days.

The British-born Indian Sikh was awarded an MBE in the late Queen Elizabeth’s Birthday Honours List this year.

Captain Chandi will return to Antarctica in early November to cross the frozen continent in a period of 75 days.

Captain Chandi said, “My aim for this expedition has always been to inspire people to push their boundaries. I want to bring people on this journey with me... It is a privilege to have the Princess of Wales as the patron.”