David (Ala) Brown and Jacob (Renegade) Brown sat down at the table in the Bruin Bites Food Court on Thursday Nov. 15, intent on winning “The Challenge” for childhood obesity awareness.
David and Jacob decided this ploy would be the perfect way to raise money for the “Let’s Move!” initiative. Let’s Move! was founded by First Lady Michelle Obama in 2010 to raise awareness for childhood obesity.
The Challenge costs $20 – and competitors who clean their plate get a refund. Chefs at Taylorsville Redwood’s Champions Grill prepare a monstrous burger of 12 beef patties, 12 slices of cheese, 12 onion rings, two buns, lettuce and tomato – and a side of steak fries.
Competitors only have thirty minutes to finish the meal
David and Jacob took pledges from classmates, friends and family in exchange for accepting The Challenge. The donations go to the American Heart Association, which works directly with Lets Move!.
Jacob admits that the irony of the stunt was intentional.
“Activism takes many forms, mine is just in the form of occasionally ridiculous activities,” Jacob said. “I plan on creating more events in the future to raise awareness for other causes.”
In the end, Jacob and David split the difference
A sweating Jacob surrendered 29 minutes into the contest, while David conquered the challenge without a second to spare. For completing the challenge in the allotted time, David was given a free champion’s T-shirt, and his photo will be posted on the Champions Grill wall along with those of past winners.
Jacob has some final advice for anyone who wants to attempt the challenge.
“Take my tale as a cautionary one. Do the fries last, be quick on the burger, try to take in as little liquid as you can, and God’s speed.”
The event raised $200 for the American Heart Association in the fight against childhood obesity.