Bitou firefighters prove their mettle

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Bitou firefighters delivered a great performance at the SA Toughest Firefighters Open Challenge at De Bakke in Mossel Bay with the women's relay team, Aliyaah Arnolds, Dazelle Jacobs and Lumka Ndabeni, securing a silver medal.

It was the seventh official event of its kind and ran from Friday 16 September through Saturday, challenging firefighters to showcase the essence of their profession.

This includes being organised; being alert and responsive; being determined and committed; teamwork; bravery; physical conditioning; compassion and responsibility.

There were several categories for teams and individuals. In the relay event where the Bitou women's team excelled, time is of the essence.

The challenge is based on the international event and has become South Africa's premier firefighter fitness challenge where the best competitors are chosen to represent South Africa internationally.

Bitou's firefighters who participated at the SA Toughest Firefighter Open Challenge with Bitou Mayor Dave Swart and Steve Ritky of the Bitou Fire Association.

The competition also allows firefighters to compete on a national platform and measure their skills and expertise against the best in the country.

"We are extremely proud of Lumka, Dazelle, Aaliyaah, and the entire Bitou Municipality's firefighting team for representing this town with great pride," the Bitou communications team said. "You are all winners and a symbol of our slogan, 'to be the best together'."

Others who formed part of the Bitou team are Nico Krigge, Bongani Yawa, Mbulelo Mabombo, Ludwe Mrwashu, Mpho Rakgwale, Mervin de Waal and Lindiswa Zithu.

The team has put in a lot of hard work and over the past few weeks, passers-by could see the preparation in action as the firefighters ran between the fire station and the taxi rank, fully kitted or carrying heavy objects, lifting weights in their boots and gear and many other "crazy" exercises.

Bitou Mayor Dave Swart thanked Steve Ritky and residents of Whale Rock Ridge for raising the funds to sponsor the teams' kit, travel, accommodation and meals to make their participation possible.

Bitou firefighter Dazelle Jacobs preparing for the SA Toughest Firefighter Open Challenge.