Firefighters great strides for charity

Firefighters have made great strides towards their upcoming Sky Tower Challenge as they put their training to the test.

Members of Blenheim Volunteer Fire Brigade dressed in full kit and carrying 20kg oxygen cylinders, took to the main stairs at Stadium 2000 on Sunday.

Supporters watched as team members climbed 915 flights, the equivalent of each climber trekking the Sky Tower more than three times.

Marlborough team leader Cade Grice says he and the team were stoked with both their effort and the community support shown.

“Today’s event displayed assurances to the Marlborough community that we work in both reactive and proactive capacities to serve our people and live our FENZ motto ‘Whakaratonga Iwi’ or ‘Service to the People.’

Now in its 20^th year, the annual challenge raises funds for the Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

Getting some exposure for the charity and raising money towards their total was a win, Cade says.

“The Leukaemia Blood Cancer foundation got some great exposure today which was a success and we are thankful to all the donors.

“The cardio component was a great injection ahead of the main event in three weeks’ time; and I am super proud of the 11 climbers and three support crew from our brigade.

“Roll on May 18^.”

To donate to the team on behalf of the Leukaemia Blood Cancer foundation visit www.firefighterschallenge.org.nz