Even if Drumheller isn’t chosen as the setting for CBC’s weight loss show Village on a Diet, a few of its residents will carry on the spirit of a healthier community.
‘Drumhealthier’, a group inspired by the prospect of being on CBC’s newest flagship show, was busy striding up and down the World’s Largest Dinosaur on Thursday.
Eighty-eight runners turned up at the foot of the dinosaur to push themselves towards a healthier lifestyle in the Week 1 challenge.
“What we’re trying to prove is that we have the momentum to keep it going,” says Drumhealthier organizer Tara Semchuk, who adds they’ve been sending the show’s producers the groups initiatives.
“It’s a group of citizens who are trying to keep people motivated. As long as people keep coming out, we’ll keep doing it,” says Semchuk.
On Wednesday, January 19, the group is asking residents to take the Week 2 challenge: five laps around the Memorial Arena’s walkways. They’ll start at 7:00 p.m.
“Anything the town is doing to demonstrate their desire to bring the show to town is important - but the most important thing is that people are really and truly motivated to get healthy,” says Village on a Diet producer Laurie Case.
“The ultimate goal for the people of Drumheller really isn’t just the chance to be on TV, it’s about having the chance to live healthier lives - and that can happen with or without TV cameras.”
Week 3’s challenge is hoped to bring a public forum on proper nutrition and portion control, although plans weren’t finalized as of Monday evening.
“Even if we don’t get it, it’s gotten people out and motivated,” says Semchuk. “The response has been really good.”