HAWC announces Lakenheath's largest loser

  • Published
  • By Verla D. Davis
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England (USAFENS) --  As a contradiction to most sporting events, where contestants need to put forth 100 percent to win, the three month 48th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Health and Wellness Center competition asked contestants to put forth top effort for the title of largest loser.

First Lt. Oscar Martinez, 48th Maintenance Group, and one of the top four losers said he already determined to make a lifestyle change by eating properly and exercising. He said because he is such a hard competitor, the contest gave him the tools he needed to help boost his personal goals.

“That’s why I took this challenge very seriously,” he said.

“Lieutenant Martinez, along with 79 competitors, cumulatively lost 500 pounds and 164 inches during one of the first competitions here at Lakenheath and possibly the Air Force that was themed after the television show the Biggest Loser -- offering prize give-a-ways,” said Tech. Sgt. David Moore, 48th AMDS NCO-in charge of the HAWC.

Contestants could sign-up in any of the five categories to include adult female, adult male, teen female, teen male and group. They then joined the ranks to alter their lifestyles by changing their eating habits and increasing physical activity. They also had to attend four follow-up weigh in appointments and nine classes dedicated to healthy living.

“Our main goal in the competition was education,” said Staff Sgt. Natalie Gatewood, 48th AMDS HAWC diet counselor. “We wanted to educate on the importance of obtaining and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which becomes the norm after three months.”

“This program invites everyone -- men, women, couples and offices -- to challenge themselves to live a healthier life, to understand a better aspect of nutrition and exercise,” Lieutenant Martinez said.

Contributors donated more than $2,000 in prizes, said Sergeant Moore, but it was the contestant’s dedication to change that motivated them to succeed.

Sergeant Moore agreed that all who completed were winners, however, only the top four losers were awarded. They were able to randomly pick from prizes valued at $350, $225, $180 and $150, including a mountain bike and one-on-one sessions with a personal trainer.

Since the competition ended, Lieutenant Martinez has continued with the program routine and has lost five more pounds and two more inches off his waist.

“The tremendous support of my wife and the individuals in my office keeps me focused,” he said.

The next loser competition will be held during the summer; however, anyone can make an appointment with Sergeant Gatewood to run through the program individually and reach weight management goals.