Okotoks Fire & Rescue is gearing up for the upcoming FireFit Regional Championship.
On June 15-16, members of the department are competing in an intense Southern Alberta Regional firefighting competition at Spruce Meadows.
The FireFit Championships is a competition based on firefighting tasks typically performed in emergency situations. The tasks are physically taxing, and involve completing heavy-lifting firefighter duties as fast as possible in a time trial.
The Okotoks team has spent the last month and a half training, and Capt. Ryan Chigol emphasized how much work has gone into his team's preparation.
“I'm really proud of all the members that have been putting in the time and effort, because it's been a lot of extra hours on their own time to come in and train and represent the department and the Town of Okotoks,” Chigol said.
This is the first time Okotoks’ fire department has competed in a regional FireFit competition since 2012. Chigol noted how this competition provides a meaningful opportunity for his team, as well as their fellow competitors.
“It's good for your mind, it's good for your body, because it's physically demanding,” he said. “It brings out teamwork, builds morale and camaraderie with other competitors."
"It is a competition mind you, but you're there to have fun.”
The Regional Championship will also determine if the Okotoks team qualifies for the upcoming National FireFit Championship in Kamloops, BC, this coming September.
If you’re looking to help cheer on your local fire firefighting crew and have lots of fun at the same time, be sure to stop by on June 15 and 16 for the Regional FireFit Championship in Spruce Meadows.
