It has been one week since Richard Brayshaw, Trevor Fiddler, Justin Gavin, and Kimberly Williams competed in 2019’s Moving into a Mirage challenge at Saskatoon Mitsubishi. Each had the chance to win some phenomenal, practical prizes but first, they had to endure an itty-bitty living space.

The final results of Moving into a Mirage.

After a weekend of living in the Mirage, Trevor left the vehicle after accepting $1,000 cash courtesy of Rayner Agencies. Kimberly escaped the vehicle on Wednesday, September 18^th for an all-inclusive vacation for two in Puerto Vallarta courtesy of Marlin Travel Saskatoon leaving only Richard and Justin in the vehicle for the final 48 hours. On Friday, September 20^th Richard and Justin remained in the vehicle, which resulted in a tie-breaking elimination draw.

To determine the final winner, Richard and Justin randomly selected from a bag full of keys and whoever chose the key to the Mirage would win the vehicle. After several false starts, Justin won the brand-new 2019 Mitsubishi Mirage complete with an extended 10-year warranty when he turned a key and the Mirage came to life. Richard was awarded a well-deserved consolation prize of $1,000 cash and $1,500 towards any Wyant Group product or service.

What happened in the Mirage stayed in the Mirage.

The inside of the Mirage was viewable via a Livestream at Cruz FM but we caught up with the contestants to tell us what was going through their heads over the course of the week.

What was the hardest moment from Moving into a Mirage?

Richard: Thursday night I remember being awake in the middle of the night and it seemed like the clock was frozen and time was standing still. I’ll admit I thought about walking away right then and I even reached for the handle a few times. But I reminded myself that I’d made it the last 160 hours and I couldn’t imagine letting down everyone who was supporting me.

Kim: The hardest moment was during the nights when I was missing my husband and child! When you are used to being around them daily and then suddenly, you’re not with them, it gets lonely. Also, I am not a person who likes cold so the night they set off the car alarms and froze us out with the AC was super hard. I probably could have slept through the car alarms but the cold got me good.

What surprised you most about Moving into a Mirage?

Richard: Apart from that one difficult night, I was surprised by how fast it seemed to go. I can’t say I was physically comfortable but everyone at the dealership and the people from Cruz FM were so warm and genuine, they made me feel comfortable.

Justin: I think the part that surprised me the most was that I wasn’t sore when it was over. I thought going into this competition that I was going to be in a great deal of pain by the end of it, but I think getting out every 3 hours and stretching and walking around really helped.

Trevor and Kim, what made you decide to leave?

Trevor: Honestly, I really thought it was going to be easier than what it was, but it was so difficult. I was getting painful cramps sitting in my seat and I couldn’t get comfortable no matter where I was. I appreciate everyone who voted for me and got me into the car and kudos to these guys for being able to stick it out, but I couldn’t do it.

Kim: When they first offered us the trip, I didn’t think I would take it. My family was with me, but my husband told me to stay and my son told me to take the trip! It took me a little bit to make my mind up, but we had been wanting to go on a family trip for a few years now so once I made my decision, the car wasn’t on my mind at all. I cannot wait to go snorkeling with my son and spend family time together and not worry about anything! If I had to do the whole thing again, I would still get out for a trip!

Richard and Justin, what was it like watching Kim and Trevor leave the vehicle?

Richard: We got to know each other in the Mirage pretty well so I completely understood why they both left. I could see Trevor was in pain so he made the right decision for himself and I knew Kim really wanted the trip and so I was happy for her.

Justin: Watching Kim and Trevor leave the car was bittersweet. On a game level, I came in here to win a car, and the fewer people in the Mirage at the finale, the greater odds I had at winning. So, it was nice watching the odds go up in my favor. On a personal level, it was sad to see them go. You really do form a quick connection being confined to a small space together.

Justin, how are you enjoying your new Mirage?

Justin: My family and I are extremely excited about the new vehicle! By some crazy coincidence, my wife’s motor blew on her vehicle during the week I was in there. So, winning Moving into a Mirage was kind of like a get-out-of-jail-free card from what could have been a pretty big expense.

Richard, after Justin won, what was going through your head?

Richard: The F word. I get such a thrill from competing and I love to win so I couldn’t believe it. I actually covered my ears so I couldn’t hear the engine turnover, but I saw the reaction from my family. It was very disheartening to go the whole distance and then lose to chance at the last second. But I’m so grateful I had my family with me and I felt them with me the whole week.

What was the first thing you did when you got home?

Richard: I was craving chocolate chip cookies and cheeseburgers, so we definitely made a pit stop on the way home. But once I got home, I reached out and thanked all the people who supported me. I’m proud of staying in the vehicle the whole time and I owe it all to the people in my life.

Kim: When I got home the first thing I did was take a shower! It was the best feeling ever! I also went to Subway for some veggies. Canadian Brewhouse made terrific food for us all week but there were a lot of meals with no veggies!

Do you miss anything about your week in the Mirage?

Justin: I miss all the action and excitement. The number of people coming and going, meeting new people and taking on new challenges. And as painful as the nighttime tortures were, I think we all had fun with that part of the experience as well.

Richard: Well I certainly don’t miss the food or the lack of sleep. I’ve had my own circle of friends for a long time so it was really nice to meet good people. I especially loved bantering with Zoe from Cruz.

Kim: I don’t miss anything about the Mirage specifically. If anything I feel grateful I don’t live in a car and have a roof over my head! But this was a fantastic experience and would definitely do it again. Everyone from the radio station to the dealership staff were amazing. I got to meet so many new people! I think Moving into a Mirage showed me how strong I am mentally and physically!

Interviews have been edited for clarity and length.