The Firefighter Olympics includes more than thirty events ranging from baseball, soccer, rock climbing and of course surfing. Beginning in the 1970’s and serving as a constructive outlet amongst a group of elite individuals and athletes that have an intense competitive nature. These adrenaline junkies come from throughout the state of California for this annual event. Only paid professional firefighters (active & retired) are given the opportunity to compete in the games. The Olympics are hosted by the Northern California Fire Department one year, then by Southern California Fire Dept. the next. This year the Anaheim, CA Fire Dept. is the Olympic host.
In the 80’s an Anaheim firefighter named Craig Watson was able to get surfing added to the games. Now it is the most popular event of the games. This year there are approximately 120 firefighters competing in the surf event. Competitors range from amateurs to those who have competed as Professional Surfers in their past careers. Of all the surfing events I have attended of this magnitude, the camaraderie and fellowship of these individuals is outstanding. Congratulations to all the competitors and especially to the Gold Medal Winners.
(A) Thomas Voss, Ventura Fire Dept.
(B) Austin Brawner, Orange County Fire Dept.
(C) Greg Dured, Los Angeles Fire Dept.
(D) Mathew Gordon, Anaheim Fire Dept.
(E) Chris Frohoff, Los Angeles Fire Dept.
(F) Martin Ross, Los Angeles Fire Dept.
(G) Gary Brunsch, Encinitas Fire Dept.
(H) Michael Skelly, Long Beach Fire Dept.
