VetRun180 is a UK-based military veterans charity, formed by its founders (themselves Iraq & Afghan vets) out of a necessity. This young and hugely exciting charity takes physically and mentally injured (PTSD) veterans on challenging expeditions around the globe. It is on these unique journeys where the lucky teams are re-invoking their great sense of adventure and teamwork. VetRun180 is genuinely saving lives through the spirit of adventure - a concept that strikes a chord with Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions.
IF IT DOESN’T CHALLENGE YOU, IT WON’T CHANGE YOU - THAT'S THE VETRUN180 MANTRA
(VetRun180 will be travelling across Balmoral Estates in Royal Deeside, by gracious permission of Her Majesty The Queen's team, along with many other historic Scottish Highland estates who have shown great support for the charity's vital work).
The relatively young charity has made leaps and bounds in just a few successful years with an impressive number of exciting expeditions now under its belt from Swedish Lapland to the Empty Quarter desert in Oman. With such exciting work its little wonder VetRun180 has attracted notable patrons such as Brian Wood MC and Rusty Firman (ex-22 SAS Iranian Embassy hero).
VetRun180 is consistently providing ‘adventure therapy’ to groups of medically discharged UK-forces personnel. Although a simple concept, the charity has already racked up dozens of moving testimonials from UK veterans who have all been greatly helped by the charity's vital work.
During and after an expedition, reports quickly come in that the guys have a more positive mindset and future outlook - as well as rediscovering a common bond, camaraderie and sense of purpose. Post expedition, these both new and rekindled emotions live-on and help to steer VetRun180 team participants onto further positive milestones on their personal roads to recovery.
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS OFF-ROAD - A COAST TO COAST EXPEDITION BY LAND ROVER DEFENDER
In September 2020, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions is proud to be working with VetRun180 on a unique Scottish project. We will be leading an off-road traverse of the Scottish Highlands, travelling 'Coast to Coast' via historic Highland estates in a convoy of up to seven Land Rover vehicles. Working closely with landowners, trusts and government organisations, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions has been able to set up a truly unique Scottish expedition for the veterans.
The specially equipped, expedition-ready Land Rover Defenders will meander their way all the way from the iconic Dunnottar Castle in the East to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse in the West (the UK's most westerly mainland point). Taking up to six days to complete the route, the group will overcome challenging off-road driving conditions, scale grand mountains, ford rivers, and wild-camp in Scotland's most incredible and remote locations.
(A Land Rover convoy trundles slowly by surely across Scotland. A journey arranged by Sandgrouse Travel & Expedition for VetRun180 - Scotland's Coast to Coast).
VetRun180 takes the time to train each team before leaving for an expedition. Each member of the group will gain a LANTRA off-road driving qualification as well as a first aid at work certificate. These two additions can give everyone the confidence to start the expedition with the knowledge required. They are also highly transferable skills, which can help with employment beyond the charities great challenges and expeditions.
Watch this space in the coming weeks as we release more exciting information about our incredible journey across the majestic and wild Scottish Highlands with our UK veterans for VetRun180.
HOW CAN I SHOW SUPPORT TO VETRUN180 AND THE AMAZING WORK THEY ARE DOING?
If you would like to donate to the VetRun180 charity please click here:
(The convoy of specially converted Land Rover vehicles will be one of the first to travel across Scotland almost in its entirity off-road thanks to the support and genorosity of many of Scotland's great Highland estates).
(Keep your eyes and ears open for further developments and news on our forthcoming adventure with the veterans - follow us at VetRun180 on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates!)
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