Excerpts from ChicagoTribune.com:
When it comes to the skills needed to fight fires and rescue victims, being physically ready is just as important as having the right training. These two elements are at the heart of the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge (SFCC), an event that brings together firefighters from around the world to showcase their strength, speed, and skill. Designed to promote firefighter fitness and highlight the real-world demands of the job, the SFCC has become one of the most respected competitions in the fire service.
Firefighters are among the most dedicated public servants, often pushing themselves beyond limits to master both physical and technical skills. Some of them take this commitment even further by competing for national recognition. Among the top contenders in this year’s competition is the 2018 Grand National Champion team from Huntley, Illinois. This team, made up of Josh Roddy, Scott Sundquist, Eric Rose, and Eric Blaser, is known as the Huntley Fire Team. They are the first team from Illinois to ever win the Grand National title at the SFCC, a feat that earned them praise from ESPN, which calls the event "the toughest two minutes in sports."
All four members of the Huntley team have completed the challenge in under 100 seconds, earning them a spot in the prestigious "Lion's Den" — the highest honor for individuals in the competition. The SFCC isn't just about speed; it's about endurance, precision, and teamwork. Each event mirrors the real challenges firefighters face on the job. Competitors must climb a five-story tower wearing full gear, including a breathing apparatus and a 42-pound hose pack. They then hoist another 42-pound roll of hose up the same tower, descend while hitting every step, and push a 165-pound steel beam using a 9-pound mallet.
The competition also includes a slalom run through cones in full gear, carrying a 200-pound charged hose through saloon doors to spray a target, and finally, carrying a 175-pound mannequin 106 feet to the finish line. These events test not only strength but also agility, focus, and mental toughness. The sport is also family-friendly, with a Kids Firefighter Challenge at many regional events where children can experience what it's like to be a firefighter in a fun and safe environment.
Open to all firefighters, the SFCC allows individuals or teams of three to five people to compete. There are also relay and tandem team options available. Registration is now open for the upcoming season, starting with the FDIC event in Indianapolis, Indiana, from April 11–13. Firefighters interested in participating can sign up online at www.firefighterchallenge.com. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the sport, the SFCC offers a unique opportunity to test your abilities and connect with fellow firefighters across the country.
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