Attorney General
VICTORIA - B.C. Solicitor General Shirley Bond today recognized the nearly 100 provincial employees who will participate in the 2011 World Police and Fire Games in New York this week.
The Province will be represented by staff from B.C. Sheriff Services of the Ministry of Attorney General, BC Corrections, the youth justice sector, South Coast British Columbia Transportation Authority Police Services, and the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch of the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. They join representatives from police and fire organizations from across the province.
Over 15,000 athletes from around the world were expected to participate between Aug. 26 and Sept. 5, although the games were delayed for two days by Hurricane Irene. Next to the Olympic Games, the biannual event is the world's largest multi-sport activity. The games develop camaraderie between emergency services responders and educate children about the benefits of sports.
Quick Facts:
- The first games were held in San Jose, California, in 1985.
- The 2009 Vancouver games were the largest, with 10,577 athletes.
- Participants are active and retired law enforcement, customs, corrections and fire and emergency service personnel.
- Each 10-day event includes 46 core sports and 24 optional sports to make a total of 69 sports, ranging from wrestling, biathlon and pistol shooting to karate. The "toughest competitor alive" event involves nine sports over two days.
- B.C. government team members fund their own participation in these events, however they received a track suit, duffel bag, and support for their registration costs.
Learn More:
For more information, visit: World Police and Fire Games: http://2011wpfg.org.
Contact:
Media Relations
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356-6961
