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Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge

 

 

 

The World Renowned Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge

Comes to Charleston SC

The Charleston area was recently selected as one of 20 some regional tour stops for the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge.  This athletic competition brings together hundreds of firefighters from around the country to compete in what is known as the “toughest two minutes in sports.” The five-event obstacle course tests firefighters' fitness levels and agility, while celebrating the excellence of these heroes.

The two-day event will be held at The Citadel Mall during Memorial Day weekend (May 29-30, 2010) and includes competitive and recreational divisions, as well as a corporate and kid’s challenge. "Citadel Mall is delighted to be the host for this exciting event," said Sam Billingsley, general manager of the mall. "What a great way to showcase the range of skills these talented firefighters possess - it is sure to be a crowd pleaser! And the Kids Challenge should be an inspiration for young aspiring firefighters."

The City of Charleston Fire Department will be a key player as a co-host of the inaugural challenge. “This event is a great opportunity to see what our dedicated firefighters do as they work hard to keep us safe. Most of us have no idea of the weight of the equipment they carry and the difficulties of working with the extra mass and bulk.  This is their opportunity to test their skills and for the public to see the stamina and agility our firefighters from around the country must possess. The kids will love this one!” stated City of Charleston Mayor, Joseph P. Riley, Jr.

The Charleston Metro Sports Council, the region’s sports development organization, is spearheading a local organizing committee to stage the inaugural event. “When the Charleston Metro Sports Council is approached with a prospective new sports event, we have a process in assessing the feasibility – and the Firefighter Challenge has strong attributes in a number of areas,” commented Kathleen Cartland, Executive Director, Charleston Metro Sports Council. “This new event will bring hundreds of families to the region for athletic competition, commemoration and vacation opportunities. In addition, our local residents can also take part as spectators and participants.” 

For more information, go to: www.firefighterchallenge.com and www.sportscouncil.org.

 

BACKGROUND: The first 'Challenge' was created 18 years ago and the 2010 national tour is planning for over 20 regional stops. The event seeks to encourage and reward firefighter fitness while it demonstrates the profession's rigors to the public.  Wearing “full bunker gear” and an air pack breathing apparatus, the pair simulates the physical demands of real-life firefighting by performing a series of tasks including climbing a 5-story tower.  The event has aired on ESPN and Versus Network. The Kids Challenge provides a tangible method of capturing the enthusiasm of children and channeling it in a positive direction. 

CONTACT:  Kathleen Cartland, Charleston Metro Sports Council  843-805-3030.

 

 

 

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