Holding public office may be a heavy responsibility, but two Comox Valley mayors are stepping a little lighter on their feet these days.
Since Jan. 31, in response to a challenge from Toronto Mayor Rob Ford to other Canadian mayors, Larry Jangula of Courtenay and Paul Ives of Comox have been involved a friendly weight loss competition. Five months later, they’ve completed their final weigh-ins.
Jangula’s starting weight was 270 pounds (122.5 kilos). As of June 30, that number has dropped to 229 pounds (104 kilos) — for a total of 41 lost pounds.
Ives weighed 191 pounds (85.5 kilos) on Jan. 31, and has lost 15 pounds, dropping to 176 pounds (78.5 kilos).
Each mayor agreed that the one with the most weight loss, calculated as a percentage, would have his flag temporarily fly at the other municipal hall. As Jangula lost 15 per cent of his total body weight, compared to Ives’ eight per cent, the City of Courtenay flag began flying Thursday over Comox Town Hall.
Mayor Jangula credits portion control with the bulk of his weight loss.
“I grew up on a farm, so we always ate big meals,” said Jangula. “I had to get rid of some bad habits, so I cut out processed meat, red meat, pasta and fried food, and met with a weight loss consultant. Now I eat more fruits and vegetables, and I also try to drink eight glasses of water a day.
"My wife and I are enjoying going on lots of walks too – I try to get in at least 30 minutes a day.”
While Jangula slightly edged Ives in the competition, he says they’re both winners.
“I feel so much better, and I know Paul does, too,” noted Jangula. “I’m so glad I did this, and I encourage anyone who’s struggled with weight loss to just give it another try. If I can do this, anyone can.”
— City of Courtenay