Fairfax, Va. – The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) will host the second-ever Firefighter Throwdown at Fire-Rescue International 2014 (FRI) in Dallas August 15-16.
Firefighter Throwdown bills itself as the ultimate strength and endurance competition for members of the fire service. This event was created by John Carpenter, who realized the number-one cause of firefighter causalities was not fire, but poor health. Firefighter Throwdown allows fit, enthusiastic and competitive firefighters the opportunity to compete on a national level in the sport of fitness.
In accordance with the IAFC's FRI Wellness Zone initiative, which promotes the health and wellness of fire service members and their affiliates, Firefighter Throwdown is meant to be both an entertaining and inspirational event.
It will take place in the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center at 10 AM, Friday, Aug. 15 (cuts announced at 5:30), and 10 AM, Saturday, Aug. 16. The awards ceremony will be held at 12:30 PM.
The IAFC and Firefighter Throwdown creators and sponsors seek to prompt viewers to embrace healthy eating and a more-active lifestyle. Sponsors such as Elkhart Brass, who supported the Throwdown early on, cite that the ultimate firefighter is the person who is in shape and utilizes the most advanced and durable equipment available.
"As a firefighter, instructor and a competitor, I see firsthand the need for a physical-fitness regimen in the fire industry," said David Bowman, firefighter/athletic director of the Firefighter Throwdown. "I believe firefighter fitness is as important as the gear we wear into a fire. Preparing our body for the mental and physical demands can make us a better spouse, coworker and protector of our community's citizens."
Firefighter Throwdown will be broadcasted live on the web, so friends, family, fellow firefighters and fans can all tune in if they're not able to attend.
For more information on Firefighter Throwdown, see the Firefighter Throwdown website. For ticket details, please visit the IAFC's FRI website to learn about the FRI Expo Pass.
About the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials spills, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders.
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