Firefighter Combat Challenge fills downtown Cedar Rapids

The sounds of the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge rang throughout downtown Cedar Rapids Sunday.  The annual freedom festival event brought out the crowds as fire fighters from across Eastern Iowa came out to show their stuff.  Pairs of competitors wore full gear and breathing apparatus and go head to head, simulating the physical demands of real-life firefighting.

“Dealing with that five story tower it is grueling.  As someone who's participated in the citizen's challenge before, I remember those days and that was one of the most grueling activities,” said Freedom Festival Interim Executive Director Russ Oviatt.

Along with scaling the tower, participants carry a hose; pull 175-pound dummy and other tasks to prove their skills.  Those who perform well here, have a shot at participating in the national tournament.

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