Firefit 2016 Wasaga Beach Competition

Myself and a few of my family members were happy to cheer my brother on as he participated in the 2016 Firefit competition at Wasaga Beach, Ontario this past Saturday. Darcy and a few other local firefighters from Kitchener, North Perth, the Township of Wellesley, Stratford and other surrounding areas gave it their best as they dug deep and put all their hours of training into action.

I've always appreciated first responders and everything they do for us in the community, but this day in particular was a huge eye opener for me.

It made me appreciate them even more - to watch these men and women push themselves to the limit PHYSICALLY and MENTALLY, was so inspiring to me and made me feel proud to have men and women like this in our community.

(click to enlarge)

For those of you who are interested in what the Individual Event consisted of, I will break it down for you. There are six tasks that need to be done within this race against time (or each other).

Task 1: Stair Climb

Climb the 40 foot tower (6 flights, 60 steps) while carrying a 42 lb hose on the outside shoulder. Deposit in or on a box at the top.

Task 2: Hose Hoist

Haul a 45lb Donut Roll hose to the top of the tower and place in a box. Run back down, one stair at a time while holding onto the railing.

Task 3: Forcible Entry

Use a 9lb hammer and move the beam past a decal and place the hammer on a designated 4' x 4' area.

Task 4: Run

Walk or run around fire hydrants at a distance of 140 ft.

Task 5: Hose Advance

On the way back, shoulder the nozzle end of a fully charged hose line. Once at the 75 ft mark, the competitor can open the nozzle and hit a target with the stream of water.

Task 6: Victim Rescue

Drag a 175 lb mannequin (Randy), backwards at a distance of 100 feet to the finish line.

During all of these tasks there are specific rules and guide lines to follow. If any task is done incorrectly, up to 5 seconds can be added to your final time. (ouch!)

THANK YOU firefighters, for your drive, determination, commitment, teamwork, and sacrifice.

THANK YOU, that in moments when we are at our lowest or feeling completely helpless, you are there to take over and FIGHT FOR US.

You are so appreciated.