The first annual firefighters’ games are coming to Pass Creek Park at the end of this month and organizers promise something major and memorable.
In years gone by a fun time was had by smaller fire departments in what was known as a ‘hose lay.’ Several departments, usually volunteer groups, would get together for friendly competition and camaraderie. That kind of specialized competition will be a focus at Pass Creek but with an emphasis on welcoming people like you to the head-to-head action. Guest competitors from as far away as Sparwood will take part.
A tremendous amount of work has gone into the games and a lot of fun can be counted on. It’s also a prime fundraising opportunity for the cause so close to firefighters’ hearts–namely, muscular dystrophy research.
“It’s really coming together and will be something special,” said prime organizer Dustin LePage on August 14, adding that it’s designed to be pleasing for spectators, with live entertainment, beer gardens, etc.
“That way we can really reach our ultimate goal which is raising as much money as possible for Muscular Dystrophy Canada. It has taken an entire fire hall and the Robson Auxiliary to make this happen”
The dates to note, by the way, are Saturday and Sunday, August 30 and 31.
“Everything’s falling into place really well as far as all the permits and insurance are concerned,” LePage, a Robson FD volunteer, continued.
Bands slated to perform on Saturday are Cold Mountain Air and Concrete Harvester. Sunday will feature another couple of acts, No Requests and Val Kilmer and the New Coke, who’ll have the benefit of a massive audio escalation as E-NORM-ous productions supplies a stage set up even more impressive than the one used at Sunfest.
All the bases, including a food donation to the tune of $1,400 from Steve’s No Frills in Castlegar, are being covered, with one exception: and that’s weather. If nature cooperates and the weather is beautiful, Dustin LePage is confident the event will be successful as well. He’s sure the kick off will be.
“Everybody is going to hear about this,” emphasized LePage. “Whether they’re there or not, they’re going to hear about what we’re doing for the opening ceremonies. I can’t stress that enough. People will want to be there for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 30. It’s going to be something people have never seen here in the Kootenays.”
LePage said it’ll be viewable later on Youtube, but, of course nothing will beat being there in the flesh.
“It’s going to be absolutely phenomenal!”