PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - An endurance test that challenged firefighters' fitness, physiques, critical response reflexes, tenacity, strength and character unfolded during this year's Toughest Firefighter Alive (TFA) competition at Garden Route Mall in George.
Seven Bitou Municipality firefighters participated in the 2026 South African TFA competition, held from 1 to 3 October.
The 11th edition of the competition brought firefighters from across South Africa together to test their physical endurance, technical skills, resilience and mental toughness through a series of demanding firefighting challenges.
For some, it was their first time taking on the demanding challenge, while others returned for their third or fourth participation.
The Bitou team comprised Calvin Mabombo, Juan Wildeman, Dazell Jacobs, Aliyaah Arnolds, Nico Kriga, Siyabonga Mngolezelwa and Xolani Tokota.
The competition also delivered medal success for Bitou, as Arnolds claimed a silver medal in her respective 30-34 age category, while Jacobs secured a bronze medal.
The pair also formed part of Bitou's mixed relay team.
Adding to the Plettenberg Bay representation was Sadecka Aweries, a qualified firefighter and former Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) worker at the Bitou Fire Department. Although she is no longer employed by Bitou Municipality, Aweries entered the competition independently and participated alongside the Bitou team.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Arnolds thanked the Bitou firefighting team, the Plettenberg Bay community, the fire chief and their families for their support, encouragement and love.
She also thanked fellow firefighters from across South Africa for contributing to what she described as a memorable experience. "Thank you for sharing knowledge and love. It is always a pleasure. It is such a magical experience to get to know your colleagues from all over and be surrounded by your people," Arnolds said.
She described the firefighting community as "a different family outside your own family".
Ahead of the competition, Bitou Municipality described the challenge as one requiring strength, courage, endurance and determination.
Mayor Jessica Kamkam commended the firefighters for their dedication and commitment to maintaining high standards in emergency services.
"Our firefighters place themselves in harm's way to protect lives, property and the environment. Their participation in the Toughest Firefighter Alive Competition demonstrates the professionalism, discipline and physical preparedness that are required in this demanding profession," she said. "We are extremely proud of these seven firefighters and wish them every success as they represent Bitou Municipality."
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