Revived after a couple of decades, the Firefighter Challenge at the Woodbury Days, last Saturday, was thoroughly enjoyed by spectators. On a bright sunny and humid 90-plus degree afternoon, the firefighters too seemed to be enjoying playing with water.
The Challenge was simple. Strung in the middle of a wire was an empty barrel, an old-style keg weighing 15 lbs. Two opposing teams of three firefighters each, sprayed jets of water to move the barrel to the other side.
Each round lasted sixty seconds. Cadets and alumni alike were part of the teams, and they worked hard to win. It was visible in the way they strained to move the barrel to the opposite side.
There were nine teams in all with four from Woodbury, including the team from the Woodbury Firefighters Alumni Association. Two teams were from Lake Elmo, two more from St. Paul Park and one team from Newport. Spectators lustily cheered each round.
The three winners were: First place: Lake Elmo Fire | Second place: Woodbury Fire | Third place: Woodbury Alumni Fire.
“The idea of a water fight or firefighter challenge is a bit of a traditional event in the fire service. I was lucky enough to participate in one previously, 15 years ago, and I loved everything about it. When I started putting this event together, it had a very nostalgic vibe to it because the number of these events have dwindled significantly in recent years. The concept always seemed like a great way to showcase our equipment and apparatus, our hose handling/management skills, pay homage to the history of our department by engaging the Alumni association,” said Benjamin Quayle firefighter/EMT with Woodbury Public Safety.
Woodbury Days staple events like the bingo tent attracted big crowds. Sponsored by Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café in Woodbury, the owners got a chance to call out bingo.
The food tent was popular as usual, with Tono Pizzeria + Cheesesteaks and Fresh India among the many new eateries this year. There was something happening at the bandshell all weekend long including cultural dances and local performers. The beer tent was very popular late Saturday evening especially after the spectacular fireworks sponsored by the City of Woodbury, this year. The new parade route was embraced by all with the special pomp, excitement and vigor the parade always generates.
All in all, another wonderful weekend of family fun!
