Amazing Race Canada - Circles of Rhythm's Challenge - Season 9, Episode 1 - Calgary, AB
Drumming Up Excitement: The Circles of Rhythm Community Unites for a Mystery Project
Picture this: a vibrant group of drummers and facilitators from across Western Canada, summoned for a secret mission. That was us—the Circles of Rhythm community—back in early 2023, when we came together for what would eventually be revealed as The Amazing Race Canada Season 9, Episode 1. At the time, we had no idea what we were in for, and the air buzzed with curiosity and anticipation.
I reached out to some of the most talented Integrated Community Drum Circle Facilitators from all corners of Western Canada. From Calgary to Edmonton, Invermere to Nakusp, they answered the call: Julien Lepage, Patrick Carrick, Marcus Fung, Don and Chris Wilhelm, Sara Neufeld, Sarah Konelsky, Allison Taylor, Taylor (Sala Sky) Wilkes, Will Gabb, Trevor Uruski, and Cody Lortscher, Grant Jones, and Bettina Maria. Each brought their unique energy and rhythm, ready to make something extraordinary happen.
Then there were the volunteers—unsung heroes who jumped in with equal enthusiasm: Rosalie, Debbie, Jonni, Roberto, Graciella, Emilio, Melissa, John, Darlene, Marla, Sophie, Chloe, Olivier, Eduardo, Kim, Ana, Paul, Perry, Tyler, Lisa, Mekko, and Grant. Together, we formed a powerhouse of creativity and camaraderie.
The catch? We all had to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements. No whispers, no hints—not even a drumbeat of a clue could escape until the episode aired on July 4, 2023. It was thrilling and torturous all at once, keeping this massive collaboration under wraps. We’d gather, drum, laugh, and speculate, but our lips stayed sealed.
Check out a behind the scenes look at the day!
Special thank you to Patrick Carrick from Rhythm By Nature for putting this together for us!
When the day finally came, and we watched our rhythms pulse through the premiere of The Amazing Race Canada, it was pure magic. Seeing the contestants dive into the energy we’d created, feeling the beat we’d built together—it was a moment of pride and connection for our whole community. We hadn’t just made music; we’d helped kick off an adventure.
Looking back, it wasn’t just about the show. It was about us—strangers turned collaborators, united by rhythm and a shared secret. The Circles of Rhythm community proved that when we drum as one, the possibilities are endless.
Here’s to more beats, more mysteries, and more unforgettable moments!
Check out the full episode here:
https://www.ctv.ca/shows/the-amazing-race-canada
Here is a supercut of the Episode
This video unfortunately can’t be played in Canada… but if you have a VPN, you can watch it! Check the links above and you’ll get access to the un-edited episode. Thank you to everyone who was able to make this day possible!