Sam Eve

Age:

25

Lives:

London

Education:

Ipswich High School, Suffolk (1984-1997)

BSc (Hons) in Geography, University of Bristol (1997-2000)

Occupation:

Marketing Manager, BSES Expeditions

Outdoor & Expedition Experience:

Enjoys skiing, snowboarding, surfing, rock climbing and kickboxing.  Experience of planning several youth expeditions to a variety of locations including Greenland, Svalbard and Tanzania.  Participated in expeditions to Lesotho and Iceland.

Why did you decide to do the Scott Dunn Polar Challenge?

I love a physical challenge and proving that the girls are just as tough as the boys! When I heard that no other all-female team had succeeded in completing the Scott Dunn Polar Challenge I was determined to change this. I love adventurous activities, in particular hill walking and skiing, and have always had a competitive streak so the Scott Dunn Polar Challenge seemed like the ultimate test.

What motivates you generally?

Taking on a project that I know will be tough and, at times, miserable but inevitably rewarding.   I guess I'm a bit of a saddist in that way!

What do you think will be the hardest part of The Scott Dunn Polar Challenge?

For me it will be keeping quiet for almost 11 hours a day! I love talking whilst walking as it helps keep you motivated, but because of the cold weather gear we'll be wearing and strong winds, it will be hard to hear each other speak. The motivation will have to come from within.

What is your biggest fear about the race?

Probably polar bears, I get scared just crossing a field of cows! No, seriously, this is an irrational fear of mine that I am looking forward to combating when we get out there. The reality is that most polar bears are inquisitive creatures and more likely to be scared of us than we are of them! We will be given lots of training and suitably equipped with rifles and flares so will be well prepared should we see one.

What has been the hardest part about training?

For me it's early mornings. I've never been good at getting up when everyone else is asleep but this is all part of the mental training for the race. It's about making things less comfortable in the lead up to the race to help us get out of our 'comfort-zones'. On that note, perhaps we should start having ice cold showers??!

What skills will you bring to the team?

I have a very strong and determined mind.  When the going gets tough, I get going! I hope I will be able to motivate the others when times are tough and morale is low.

Thoughts on women in the Arctic.

I hope our challenge will raise awareness of womens' achievements in the Arctic and encourage today's female adventurers to do more of the same.

What will you miss the most?

My bed.