Weight-loss challenge slow to draw sponsors

Michael Seriosa had little trouble finding participants for his Web-based weight-loss reality show, "Sierra Fitness Challenge," which began filming the first of 16 shows Dec. 3 at Sports West Athletic Club.

Finding additional sponsors to help develop the show has proved a bigger challenge.

Seriosa, development director for the program, recently took a day job and films the show at nights at Sports West. With the New Year and new business quarter he'll begin a serious push to secure additional sponsors.

"Last month was kind of tough; most companies, their budgets were all gone," he says. "But hopefully the fitness community can help out and help our community as well."

Brandi Boothe, Jocelyn Ann Messick and Azalea Gonzalez are the show's first three participants. Sierra Fitness Challenge airs on public access Channel 16, on sierrafitnesstalk.com, as well as on YouTube.