Meet Survivor UK contestant – Doug

Age: 32
From: Isle of Mull
Occupation: Flood Risk Consultant

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

When I was younger I vividly remember watching the original UK Survivor back in 2002. As a family we loved the show, even going as far as re-enacting some of the original challenges. When I saw that it was returning to TV in the UK I wasted no time in putting my application in. Next thing I know – I’m on a desert island building a shelter from bamboo! I came on Survivor to make my family back home on Mull proud, and have the adventure of a lifetime.

What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?

I was hopeful I could put my height (I’m 6ft 4”) to good use and help my tribe get to those hard to reach places, get the shelter up, and hopefully be a useful asset for the challenges. I also enjoy making people laugh so hopefully I made everyone’s experience a little more enjoyable on the island and spread a little joy.

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?

I try and keep fairly active back home, so as part of my preparation for the show I did a lot of sled work at the gym. I’d load the sled up with my bodyweight and push and pull it 50 times a session. That, and Pilates!

Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?

My strategy coming into the game comprised of 2 key elements; firstly establish myself as an indispensable member of the tribe during the early phase of the game by performing well at Challenges and working hard around the camp. Then secondly was to find myself a “Shield” player, or failing that, to create one. Someone ideally who would take a real leadership role within the tribe and more importantly, is regarded as a bigger target than myself. I’ll sit right behind them as long as I can!

How competitive are you?

One of my main hobbies growing up was playing rugby, so I guess I’d regard myself as a fairly competitive person! I’ve also got a twin sister back home on the Isle of Mull who is fiercely competitive and kept me on my toes as a youngster.

What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?

All of them! Especially the challenges that involved physical strength and were team based. There’s no feeling quite like grinding out a victory against the odds with your tribe by your side.

How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?

Although we were without food, internet and a bed, being away from the comforts of home was incredible. Living on the bare essentials and being away from everyday distractions was an amazing experience.

How did you cope with the hunger?

Back in Scotland I’d usually eat between 3000-4000 calories a day, so hunger and a real lack of food was a huge concern coming onto Survivor! To prepare I went on a strict “see-food” diet where I’d try and eat as much food as possible (my final weight before entering the game was 107kg – the heaviest I’ve ever been.) Limited rations at camp was tough, especially after the gruelling challenges but we found some creative ways to keep it varied and bulk it out as much as we could.

What did you learn from being on the show or what is the biggest takeaway?

Being on Survivor was an adventure of a lifetime. Full of twists, turns, highs and lows. During the low points of the game it was my tribemates who gave me the strength I needed to keep fighting. It’s amazing how complete strangers who you’ve never met before can lift your mood even during the dark times living on a desert island. That, and I’ll never eat rice and beans again!