US Police and Fire Championships begin in San Diego

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The 57th annual U.S. Police and Fire Championships began over the weekend in San Diego and were held at more than 25 locations across San Diego County from Saturday, June 8 through Saturday, June 15.

Nearly 3,000 first responders from across the country are in town to take part in this Olympic sporting event, which includes competitions in 38 different sports, from hockey, bench press and pickleball to track and field.

On Sunday, participants threw their best throws at the cornhole competition.

“Everyone just sticks together. We’ve made so many friends through this. It doesn’t matter what department you’re from, we all just become friends,” said Brian McDonald, a Los Angeles Police Department officer.

The US Police and Fire Championships have been held in San Diego since 1967.

Jim King, president of the California Police Athletic Federation, says the basic idea was to promote fitness but also to create camaraderie among the different police groups.

Video below: Bowe Fertig live from the 2024 US Police & Fire Championships in San Diego

“It’s a way to let go and reconnect with people. Our motto is competition, camaraderie and commitment,” King said.

After each competition there is an awards ceremony where participants win gold, silver and bronze medals.