Firefighter Combat Challenge

The Challenge took place at the Houston Fire Department Val-Jahnke Training Academy, 8050 Braniff, near Hobby Airport on September 3, 2005.  The Houston Firefighters Challenge is sanctioned through On Target Challenge, Inc., and is a qualifier for the U.S. National Championships to be held the weekend of November 15 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Representing the City of Houston is the team “Just Right”- Houston Fire Department. Their name honors Captain Grady Burke, lost in the line of duty on February 19, 2005.  “Just Right” was a favorite expression of his, and the men of Station 46 wish to dedicate their efforts to his memory.

The Competition consists of 5 timed events basic to the job of a firefighter. Men and women train all year by climbing 40-story buildings carrying heavy loads, lifting weights and running sprints.  When asked what motivates them to compete, Eric Kellman a firefighter from Houston Fire Station 46 B shift, stated simply, “Because the job demands it. The Challenge goes hand in hand with the daily job”.

The 2004 World Champions from Windsor-Ontario, Canada competed against other firefighters representing the Southwest. The Challenge is open to the public, no admission charge. Competition is scheduled to start at 10:00 AM. For more information:  http://www.firefighter-challenge.com/index.htm

Event Website: http://www.firefighter-challenge.com/index.htm