The producers of Wipeout Canada are still recovering from the sensory overload of their callback tour, which had them travelling across the country to meet hundreds of shortlisted potential contestants from a pool of 44,619 applicants. Wisely, they brought along some members of the revered Canadian media to act as guest judges (and scriveners). Here are some recollections from those lucky enough to take part in the mayhem...

Chris Jancelewicz, TV Squad: "Basically, it was like watching a circus, complete with the come-down one experiences when they leave the Big Top. It was physically exhausting to witness people coming in one after the other, pouring their hearts out in front of the panel. Some contestants dazzled, others confused."

Debra Yeo, The Toronto Star: "There was a Toronto arborist whose nickname was 'Dances With Red Balls'; a father of three wearing a T-shirt that said, “I love big red balls”; a contestant from Welland nicknamed Meatball (because he really likes meatball subs) made up a song on the spot featuring the big red balls: 'I wanna be on Wipeout so bad / jump on those big balls and hit my head / Every time I close my eyes / see Meatball winning that big prize.'"

Sammy Younan, The National Post: "People are desperate for fame, to be on TV, to be anywhere other than where they are. Some even begged. Seriously, on their knees, hands clasped together. Sad and strange, as one contest revealed: it’s time to 'expose Canada to my presence.' Oh my."

Lisa Wilton, Calgary Sun: "There was the frosted-tipped, pretty boy wrestler with the California glow; the ‘muscle model’ dressed as a Spartan, who called himself Chocolate Thunder and the slightly flabby fella who rode in on a broomstick horse wearing nothing but a pair of tight Speedos."

Mike Morrison, Mike's Bloggity Blog: "To be honest, the whole day became one big blur. But by the end of the 10 hours of auditions, I really and truly think I’ve seen everything. I mean it... everything."

XOXO Jes: "I actually yawned at one guy... I felt kind of bad... but I was really tired."

It truly was a human salad, just as one Wipeout Canada host had openly wished for a few short weeks ago. Thanks to everyone who came out to audition, as well as all the hordes of family and friends who showed up just to lend some support. Over the next few weeks, we'll start rolling out more videos and photos from the callbacks, so stay close to this site and like us on Facebook to keep up.

Oh, and one more thing: If you didn't receive a call to come to a callback, don't give up hope! We are reviewing all applications and video submissions, and will contact further contestants shortly.