South Glengarry Firefighter Shines at National FireFit Competition

Daniel Jackman, a volunteer firefighter with South Glengarry Fire Services Station 5 in North Lancaster, showcased his skills at the recent National FireFit Competition in St. Catharines, Ontario. Competing in the Men Over 45 division, Jackman achieved a personal best time of one minute and forty-eight seconds, navigating a demanding series of physical challenges designed to test strength, fitness, and accuracy.

Intense Competitions Across Canada

The FireFit competition, often referred to as the toughest two minutes in sport, is a national series that begins in Vancouver and concludes in Newfoundland. Throughout the year, firefighters participate in regional competitions, allowing both volunteer and full-time firefighters to demonstrate their abilities. Participants can compete individually or as part of a relay team, and they are categorized by age and experience level, including divisions for Volunteer, Rookie, and Chief firefighters.

This competition was established to maintain the physical fitness of firefighters, who face heightened risks of cardiac arrest and coronary artery disease due to their demanding roles. Contestants wear full bunker gear, which includes a protective coat and pants, along with boots, a helmet, and an air tank, adding up to a weight of approximately 75 lbs. The competition requires competitors to climb six flights of stairs while carrying 42 lbs of hose, followed by a series of tasks simulating real-life emergency situations.

A Gripping Test of Skills and Endurance

Upon reaching the top of the stairs, participants deposit the hose in a box before using a pulley to lift another 42 lbs of fire hose to their platform. They then descend the stairs to use a sledgehammer on a Keiser Force Machine, simulating forcible entry. Following this, they navigate a slalom course around fire hydrants to retrieve a fully charged water hose, which they carry 75 feet to accurately spray a target. The final challenge involves dragging ‘Rescue Randy’, a 175 lbs mannequin designed for training, a distance of 100 feet to the finish line.

“By the time you reach the finish line, your legs are like Jello,” said Jackman, reflecting on the intense physical demands of the competition.

Despite the challenges, Jackman finds motivation in the camaraderie displayed by fellow competitors. “When I’m in the middle of the competition, I wonder why I put myself through this,” he admitted. “But with a bit of a stubborn streak and the amazing encouragement from everyone, I’m always happy to finish, especially when I beat a previous time.”

During the summer, Jackman also competed in two regional meets, one in Conception Bay, Newfoundland, and another in Stone Mills, Ontario. His performance in Stone Mills earned him a gold medal, securing an automatic qualification for the National Championships in 2025.

Dave Robertson, Fire Chief of South Glengarry, expressed pride in Jackman’s accomplishments. His colleagues at Station 5 even contributed funds to help cover his registration and travel expenses for the competition.

Balancing a busy life as a full-time pilot, volunteer firefighter, and family man, Jackman’s commitment to being “faster, fitter, and stronger” is evident in both his enthusiasm and achievements in the FireFit competitions.