Meet the 2017 Shape-Up Challenge contestants
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Jane Lindsey
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Janis McGee
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Jenn Breakiron
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Jeff Nicholson
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Krystal Bowlen Krystal Bowlen
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Debbie Whelan
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Tara Azzardi Tara Azzardi
John F. Brothers | Herald-Standard
Jennifer Fleszar
This year, eight Fayette County residents have been chosen to take part in the fifth Shape-Up Challenge, an exclusive cohort competition coordinated by the Uniontown YMCA and the Herald-Standard.
Whether it’s to lose weight, become healthier or change their lives, each contestant comes to the competition with a personal goal.
Uniontown YMCA Wellness Director Pam George said she’s excited about this year’s group and their willingness to change.
“It’s going to be a great edition, and I know this group can do it,” George said.
The contestants are Krystal Bowlen, Jane Lindsey, Debbie Whelan, Jennifer Fleszar, Tara Azzardi, Janis McGee, Jenn Breakiron and Jeff Nicholson.
Krystal Bowlen
Age: 29
Beginning weight: 253
Hometown: Point Marion
Family: Married to husband with two children.
Occupation: Substitute teacher
“My goal is to get back in shape and be healthy again.”
Jane Lindsey
Age: 50
Beginning weight: 219.5
Hometown: Footedale
Family: Engaged with a son and grandson.
Occupation: Receptionist
“I’m here to lose weight and get back in shape.”
Debbie Whelan
Age: 48
Beginning weight: 263.5
Hometown: Smithfield
Family: Married to her husband with two sons.
Occupation: Hairdresser
“My goal is learn how to eat right and keep the weight off.”
Jennifer Fleszar
Age: 38
Beginning weight: 258
Hometown: Uniontown
Family: Married to her husband with two sons.
Occupation: Compliance officer at a credit union
“My goal is to lose weight, and then stay active enough to keep it off.”
Tara Azzardi
Age: 37
Beginning weight: 266
Hometown: Uniontown
Family: Married to her husband with one son.
Occupation: Stay-at-home mom
“My goal is to lose the weight. I’ve lost control of myself and have put everyone else first. Now it’s time to focus on me.”
Janis McGee
Age: 44
Beginning weight: 191.75
Hometown: Uniontown
Family: Married to her husband with three children.
Occupation: RN
“My goal is to lose 60 pounds. My family has a history of short life expectancy, and I’d like to change that.”
Jenn Breakiron
Age: 36
Beginning weight: 268.25
Hometown: Smithfield
Family: Single
Occupation: Quality assurance official
“I’m here to get healthy and look good for my trip to Cancun later this year.”
Jeff Nicholson
Age: 59
Beginning weight: 242.5
Hometown: Dunbar
Family: Married to his wife with two children and five grandchildren.
Occupation: Retired Columbia Gas worker, now self-employed
“I would like to get back in shape and start feeling good again.”