http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/Firefight...4467582.jp

Firefighters blaze glory trail on Merseyside

THE Isle of Man team blazed the glory trail at the 10th World Firefighter Games in Merseyside.
The games saw 3,500 firefighters representing 38 nations take part in 73 sports. There were 16 medals won by the eight-strong Isle of Man team – eight gold, five silver and three bronze.

Manx success was achieved by Floyd Askin, who took gold in light heavyweight judo, and Neil Parsons, who was awarded seven golds in trap, skeet and sporting clay target shooting.

Sub-officer Mark Caley, who came 14th in the mountain bike race, said everyone involved had thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

'It was a fantastic event, and it was great to meet up with so many colleagues from around the world,' said Mark.

'The mountain biking was tough. It was a good course and great fun, but it did get very muddy!'

Chief fire officer Brian Draper, who came 23rd in the mountain bike race, said: 'The games take place every two years and with this year's event being held so close to home, we really wanted to represent the Isle of Man.

'On behalf of our team, I'd like to thank the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for providing travel to the games.'

Other competitors who took part included Tim Calladine,Steve Brearley and Gary Hinds, who is also the manager of the Team Isle of Man-Microgaming national cycling squad.

'We were only too pleased to be able to help the Isle of Man Fire Service,' said Isle of Man Steam Packet Company chief executive Mark Woodward.

'The event is a fantastic idea and we were happy to play our part in helping the team promote the Island.'



(Fitz and I will wear our Firefighters Olympic shirts with great pride!!).