By Kathy Jefcoats
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Copyright 2006 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
About 500 firefighters from across the nation will converge on Morrow this weekend for a national competition in firefighter skills.
The event is free, open to the public and features plenty of activities for kids.
* Where: The Clayton Challenge will be held in the Home Depot parking lot, 1986 Mount Zion Road, Morrow.
* When: Friday starting at 4 p.m., Saturday at noon.
* Cost: Free
* What are the events: Firefighters will compete in five skills commonly performed in emergency situations. They will climb a five-story tower while wearing full gear and carrying a 50-pound hose pack; hoist another hose pack up the tower; drive a 165-pound steel beam 5 feet with a sledge hammer; advance a heavy fire hose 100 feet; and simulate a rescue by dragging a 185-pound mannequin 100 feet.
* Who benefits: Clayton County fire Battalion Chief Jerry Russell said 100 percent of money raised through food sales goes to charities such as the local Rainbow House and Georgia Burn Foundation.
* Television: ESPN televises the event by tape delay.
* If it’s on TV, why go? Russell hopes parents will bring their kids to enjoy special activities. “Party City has pretty much taken over the kids’ activities and there is a tremendous amount for the kids to do this year,” he said. That includes moon walks and games such as Balloon Pop, Basketball Toss, Football Toss, Hook’s Treasure, Mini Golf, Potty Toss, Quack Attack and Spin Art.
The Navy is bringing a flight simulator and the Army is setting up a kid-sized rock wall.
* What’s next? The world championship Nov. 7-11 in Henderson, Nev.
* Information: Clayton County fire Battalion Chief Jerry Russell at 404-557-5158