Phone: 407-760-0433
Email: Chelsea.Ryan@ocfl.net
Orange County Fire Rescue Sweats It Out For 343 Hero Challenge To Honor Fallen Firefighters Of 9/11
Orange County Fire Rescue will hold its fifth annual 343 Hero Challenge on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, at Orange County Fire Rescue’s Training Facility, also known as the “Fit Pit.” Participants will compete in strenuous athletic challenges featuring CrossFit-style workouts and firefighting tasks that simulate the actions of the 343 fallen firefighters on 9/11. Traditionally held in September near the anniversary of 9/11, this year’s event was postponed due to Hurricane Irma, as Orange County Fire Rescue prepared for the storm and aided the community in the aftermath.
Similar to previous years, the Honor Guard will kick off the event as they pay tribute to the firefighters who selflessly risked their lives to help others. The trademark 343 Hero Challenge exercise remains consistent, challenging competitors to complete step-ups for three minutes and 43 seconds while wearing bunker gear, carrying hose and viewing profound images from 9/11. The activity puts into perspective the grueling obstacles firefighters faced as they climbed the Twin Towers.
The event is open to the public and all proceeds, including registration costs, will support the Firefighter Cancer Support Network.
WHO: Fire Chief Otto Drozd III
Orange County Fire Rescue
CrossFit Broken Chains
Firesled Fitness and Training
WHAT: 343 Hero Challenge
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Orange County Fire Rescue Training Facility
2976 Forsyth Road
Winter Park, FL 32792
INTERVIEW/VIDEO OPPS: Wellness Coordinator, Lieutenant Anthony Willis
343 Hero Challenge competition
Opening ceremony inclusive of flag display and Honor Guard
Intervals of competitors participating in fitness challenges
About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.