Rachel

Age: 40
From: Whitstable
Occupation: Insurance Claims Handler

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

I have always been an adventurous, strong, outdoorsy, sporty person who loves a challenge and my mum knew I had wanted to take part in a show like this for years so when she saw an advert for contestants online she tagged me in it. My motivation was that I wanted my children to know that not having a dad around does not mean that one parent isn’t enough and to show them that anything can be achieved if you put your mind to it.

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

Strength, being a team player, honesty and encouragement.

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

I am already very sporty, I play and coach football and take part in park runs on a weekly basis. My life experiences have already given me a lot of mental strength and coping mechanisms.

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

No, I was only ever going to be open, honest and myself.

How competitive are you?

Very! Everyone wants to win right?

What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?

All of them, head-to-heads especially so I can showcase my strengths and attributes to the team especially as an older and bigger person.

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

The lack of a decent bed was painful most nights, but you do get used to the sand in everything after a few days.

How did you cope with the hunger?

Supporting each other as a team and making sure we were eating what rations we did have. Attempting to set bait traps, foraging for coconuts, sugar cane and any other food available to us on the island.

What did you learn from being on the show?

That I am capable of anything and my gut instinct is always right. Also, I need to stop putting everyone else’s needs before my own! I have met some amazing people and cannot wait to try new adventures with them.