Windsor Fire and Rescue Services and the City of Windsor are set to play host this September to some of the most fit firefighters found in North America during FIREFEST 2023.
“The FireFit series, as part of FIREFEST, has a proud tradition of celebrating firefighters, showcasing physical excellence and stamina, and making a difference in the lives of residents across our region through charitable giving,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. “I encourage everyone to come out to this free competition to cheer on the competitors as they face off in challenges designed to test their strength and resilience. This is another fantastic opportunity to thank the brave men and women who put their lives at risk every day on the job, to inspire spectators, and to showcase some of what makes Windsor and Essex County a truly memorable destination in Ontario.”
In the early 2000s, Windsor hosted multiple successful FireFit events, including the world championships. In 2022, Windsor Hosted the Can-Am Police-Fire Games, which culminated in a FireFit event held at the Riverfront Festival Plaza on the closing weekend.
“There were many benefits to hosting the Can-Am Police Fire Games in 2022, and certainly near the top of that list was the legacy piece of Windsor being awarded the opportunity to host FIREFEST 2023 as part of the FireFit Western Ontario Regionals,” said Gordon Orr, Chief Executive Officer Tourism Essex Pelee Island. “I thank Windsor Fire and Rescue Services for actively pursuing this piece of business and bringing this event, and the associated economic benefit, here to Windsor.”
The festival will run from Friday, September 8, through Sunday, September 10, 2023, and include the following showcase competitions:
- T2B Rescue Relays – Community, Fire Station and Media Obstacle Course (September 8)
- Tug Across the River (September 9)
- Five-kilometre (5K) Run with First Responders (September 9)
- FireFit Western Ontario Regional Championship (September 9 and September 10)
“Windsor Fire and Rescue Services is excited to host the 2023 Windsor FIREFEST, including the FireFit Western Ontario Regional,” said Fire Chief Stephen Laforet. “The Windsor Firefighter Challenge Team members have participated and set records in these events since 2000. In addition, their actions extend beyond the competition, donating equipment to the department and extending fundraising opportunities that support local organizations. We look forward to cheering them on again in September.”
“As the alma mater of many of this region’s emergency service workers – including the graduates of our Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training program – it was natural for the college and its Alumni Association to act as a sponsor for FireFest,” said St. Clair President Patti France. “We have to keep cheering on our graduates, of course, and also show our admiration for all of the heroes in this profession who dedicate their lives to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.”
Admission to all events is free, and information will be updated and added to www.WindsorFire.com/firefest as the September date draws nearer.