2009 World Police & Fire Games Results

One of the world’s most famous trails, the Grouse Grind, crowned a new champion in the signature event of the 2009 World Police & Fire Games today. Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue serviceman Robin Bryson bested the field in a time of 30:20 in the Men’s Master heat. Canadian Astrid Bonter of the Vancouver Police Department posted the fastest women’s time with 38:26 in the Women’s Open heat. The quickest Canadian male was Men’s Open competitor Ryan Ervin of the Vancouver Airport Fire Department in a time of 30:41. 

The team challenges saw policewomen from the Vancouver Police Department win the Women’s Open category. Firemen from the Barcelona Fire Service took the Men’s Open division, and the Mixed Open team title was won by the District of North Vancouver Fire Department. 

Hundreds of cheering spectators gathered in the sunshine atop the Peak of Vancouver to witness 315 athletes represent their respective services and countries. B.C. Minister of Healthy Living and Sport Ida Chong was joined by local police and fire officials, as well as government representatives to present medals to all the podium winners.

“We are very proud to have been selected to showcase the Grouse Grind as a unique venue symbolizing Vancouver's outdoor culture and breathtaking scenery," says Michael Cameron, Grouse Mountain general manager. 

Athletes came from all corners of the globe with the following 14 countries represented: Australia, Spain, Northern Ireland, Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, Finland, France, Brazil, Sweden, UK, Italy, US and Canada. With more than 60 sports on display at over 50 venues, the 2009 World Police and Fire Games also provides an opportunity for British Columbians to cheer on 2,500 BC athletes as they take on the world. The Games are open to all full-time professional firefighters, law enforcement, customs and correctional officers from around the world. Held every two years, the Games bring together the emergency services community for 10 days of sport, celebrating camaraderie, community and competition.

“The Grouse Grind mountain run is a signature event at the 2009 World Police and Fire Games, and no other host city has anything that compares,” said Stu Ballantyne, CEO, 2009 World Police and Fire Games. “It’s a unique Vancouver landmark that’s beautiful, and challenging at the same time, and we’re proud to call it an official venue.” 

The official course record to date for men is 26:19 held by Michael Simpson set at the 2007 Grouse Grind Mountain Run. For women, the record is 31:04 held by Leanne Johnston and set at the 2007 event.