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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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