OPTIFAST has announced a new weight loss contest where three big losers can enjoy big prizes, including a three-night trip for two to New York City, a spa makeover, and $500 shopping spree.

Jessie Joslin, OPTIFAST marketing manager says, “At OPTIFAST, we’ve helped people transform their lives for more than 30 years-and we’ve seen what a huge impact losing a significant amount of weight does for our participants’ health, confidence and outlook on life. The OPTIFAST Weight Loss Contest is an opportunity to celebrate our graduates’ transformations, as well as their dedication and commitment to a healthy lifestyle.”

The competition is open to new participants aged 18 years and older who’ve signed up for The OPTIFAST Program between Aug. 1 and Nov. 1, 2009 and have completed the first 12 weeks of the program. To be considered, submissions must include an entry form (available at http://www.optifast.com/ or by e-mailing OPTIFASTmarketing@us.nestle.com) and an essay (no more than 500 words) about the impact the weight loss journey has had on the participant’s life.

“When many OPTIFAST participants complete the first 12 weeks of the program, they can’t wait to share their journey as a way to help motivate others who share the same challenges they once faced,” said Joslin. “The essay is their opportunity to tell their story. We can’t wait to learn more about these inspirational stories.”

The winners will participate in a professional photo shoot promoting the OPTIFAST Program and all essays will become the property of Nestlé.

Judging will be based primarily on the creativity of the essays and the compelling nature of the participant’s weight loss journey, but total weight loss will also be considered. Complete entry details and contest rules can be found at http://www.optifast.com/. The deadline for submission is 11:59 pm on Feb. 1, 2010.