Firefighters' fun and games on the way

Thousands of firefighters from around the globe are to take part in the World Firefighters Games in Hong Kong in 2006.

Contestants will compete for the title of 'Toughest Firefighter Alive' and take part in dozens of sporting competitions and less-physical contests such as poker, cook-offs and perhaps mahjong.

They may also race in full kit up the 88-storey Two IFC in Central or the steps to the Big Buddha on Lantau.

The games, held every two years in a different country, are a sort of mini-Olympics with individual and team events, including some relating directly to a firefighter's job.

The games in February 2006 are expected to be the biggest yet, with 5,000 participants competing in more than 40 events. It will be the first time the event has come to Asia.

Poker and cookery are on the programme because they are often what firefighters do while waiting for a call. A Fire Services Department spokesman, asked if mahjong would be included because of its popularity with Hong Kong firefighters, said 'why not'?

The highlight of the games will probably be the Toughest Firefighter Alive competition. Contestants will tackle obstacle courses and test their skills with firefighting equipment.