Global expeditions firm Sandbaggers broadening horizons

A Scottish adventurer who supported a group of celebrities on a desert trek for Sport Relief is expanding his global expeditions business – broadening its remit after adding staff – saying he expects 2021 to be its best year yet.

The firm cites growing demand for life-affirming adventure in remote places. Picture: Leo Francis.

David Scott took the likes of TV judge Robert Rinder and newsreader Louise Minchin on a gruelling 100-mile trek on bike and foot across the Namib Desert in Namibia for the BBC charity drive.

Scott said: “We’re focusing on growing the business fairly dramatically over the next couple of years. We’re increasing the number of countries we’re taking expeditions to and broadening the types of experiences we can offer there. Until very recently I basically ran the business myself, but now have four staff, including a UK-based operations director and two full-time overseas managers.”

The future is looking bright, says Scott. Picture: contributed.

Bridge of Weir-based Sandbaggers grew from Scott arranging a stage race across Mongolia’s Gobi Desert in 2004. Since then he has staged multiple events across the Gobi and Namib deserts, as well as jungle and extreme weather treks, and even an ice marathon race.

Now Sandbaggers is offering trips such as taimen fishing in remote Khuvsgul Aimag, close to the Russian border in Mongolia, and a kayak journey down the Santa Cruz river in Argentina. Trips also come with support crew including doctors and full medical equipment.

Scott said: “There has been a growing demand for life-affirming adventure in remote places… We also arrange bespoke expeditions.”

He also said bookings are still healthy and growing for 2021 and 2022, with the firm putting on a few races in conjunction with Rat Race over the next 12 to 24 months. He added: “Obviously 2020 has been a challenging year… but early signs for 2021 are very positive – it’s looking like being our busiest ever year. We’re also getting bookings for 2022 – so the future is looking bright.”

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