For those who missed out on this childhood classic, in 1995 Disney Channel graced us with the film Heavy Weights. Camp Hope seems like a fun place from a distance, but when leadership changes, Tony Perkis (Ben Stiller) takes over and makes some major adjustments.
Now, lets make something clear: training camp is awesome! But, I have to say, the film Heavy Weights and the World Race Training Camp have some scary parallels. From the big yellow school buses, to the squad wars/relay race connection. But I’ll slightly break it down further:
We did in fact use the “buddy system” while at camp.
At both Camp Home and at Training Camp, downsizing is huge. We were able to try foods from all over the world: India, Africa, Central America…but when portions are rationed among 8 people, you learn to downsize real quick. Like survival of the fittest, you gotta strategize to subside the hunger– memo for future racers, BRING SNACKS! You also lose a lot of weight. Between the rationed food and daily exercises.
During camp you are given “field scenarios”. This is to prepare you for real world scenarios on the race. In the 1995 film, the dance scene comes to mind. When the boys of “fat camp” are forced to socialize with pretty girls from camp across the lake. It’s awkward, it feels kinda pointless, but you end up learning something of value: about real life situations.
This takes me to the biggest parallel. The moment you realize you love yourself. You’re forced to live in a community and a lot of insecurities pop up. At the end of it all, you look around and realize the incredibly bold and inspirational people that surround you. You also start to look at yourself and say: “Hey! I am great, loved, talented, special, just as I am!” (eat that Uncle Tony!)
There are way more parallels, but I’m not going to go spoiling this for future racers! 😉
So here it is, introducing my team! The 7 wonderful people that will be with me during the race. Our first assignment is in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa!
Meet (from left to right) Dylan, Kelly, Claudia, Lauren, Jessica and Kevin! Some of them are teachers, some of them are from Florida, some of them love wearing tutus, some of them speak Spanish, some of them are in their 20s, and some are in their 30s. But one things for sure, they are crazy awesome and I am so blessed to have them on my team “Called to Greatness”! Keep up with my blog and subscribe! You’re in for some real treats 
