Minchin was attempting to raise money for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award by participating in the Inuvik Weekend Warrior Fat Bike Challenge, which involved cycling 300 miles in three days in the Arctic Circle in Canada. She was joined by professional sportswoman Mimi Anderson, an endurance athlete and World Record holder. Their attempt was cut short after 140 kilometres when they both developed frostbite and were forced to abandon the race, with Minchin and Anderson sharing their news from a hospital room, showing bandaged fingers.
Temperatures were as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius for 14 hours during the challenge. Minchin had frostbite in every toe and a thumb, while Anderson had it in three fingers, though the exact medical severity and prognosis of the injuries have not been disclosed. According to Minchin, the extreme conditions led to the frostbite, and she noted that both knew they were dangerously cold, making it too risky to continue.
They received treatment at a local hospital and will spend the next five days there, with the specific location of the hospital not confirmed. Minchin described the experience as 'brutal' and said they were 'out of the race,' but expressed optimism about recovery and praised the medical care.
Well-wishers, including former Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton, BBC Breakfast alumnus Susanna Reid, Sally Nugent, and author Adele Parks, shared messages of support.
In 2024, Minchin participated in Gladiators, showcasing her continued involvement in physical challenges. The total amount of money raised for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award before the attempt was cut short remains unknown, as does whether there were any other participants in the challenge affected by the conditions. The date when the frostbite incident occurred has also not been specified.