Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton is no stranger to daredevil adventures; the 28 year old has already canoed the length of the Amazon River and walked between the chimneys of Battersea power station on a high wire. She has now set off on a 500-mile journey across Antarctica. Riding a specially designed bicycle, Skelton will set a world record if she successfully completes her journey, in addition to raising money for the BBC’s Sport Relief. The specially commissioned bicycle took three months to be designed and built by LA manufacturers Dan Hanebrink and Kane Fortune.

Glide Across the Snow

Taking its cue from a golf cart, the bicycle features 20cm thick tubeless rubber wheels that should glide across the snow. “They’re a lot like the tyres for golf carts,” explained Hanebrink, working by leaving the “smallest impression possible.” The pedals have been fitted with straps to keep Skelton’s snow boots securely attached. Other special features of the bicycle include a leather seat, which should not crack as a plastic saddle would.

Delayed Start

Bad weather delayed the beginning of Skelton’s challenge by four days, but her enthusiasm for the journey is undiminished. “I am desperate to get started and to get a few miles under my belt,” Skelton confirmed. Undaunted at the prospect of 14 hours of travelling a day and pulling a supply sledge weighing up to 82kg, Skelton is ready to raise precious funds for charity.