Safety
We were fully trained to complete Polar Challenge by arctic experts.
This included a weekend in Wales , a week in Austria and a week in the High Arctic before the race started.
We were trained from the very basics of survival to skiing and navigation. Medical training was also given.
The Arctic is not to be underestimated, it poses many potential hazards, from the risk of hypothermia and frostbite to inquisitive polar bears.

The challenge was supported by 3 mobile safety teams. The mobile safety teams were staffed by highly experienced arctic trained staff with skidoo, air and ski mobility. The medical teams consisted of highly qualified medical experts who are extreme challenge specialists. We visited 3 manned checkpoints during the polar challenge, where we were able to resupply with food and fuel for the next stage of the race and obtain advice if required.

All teams carried an iridium satellite phone and had to ring in once a day to confirm their position. In the event of an emergency we could have contacted the Polar Challenge safety team. In the event of an emergency requiring immediate evacuation, Polar Challenge air medical crews were on continuous standby ready to airvac casualties.