An Extraordinary Day

The LiftMaster #1 Car and Firefighter Combat Challenge Competitors

Thursday’s activities were packed. First, we supported the ABC TV network’s Extreme Weight Loss show with access to our course for shooting an episode that will air next summer.

At 7AM, the crew arrived and began the setup with the assembly of one of the largest jib’s out there. Go-Pros and mobile cameras were everywhere- guaranteeing a rich viewing experience for their audience.

Cast member Josh Hanes, who has lost 120 pounds, ran one for record and bested his Monday 2:46 with a 2:25.99. Kudos to Clarence Parks who was the rabbit and extra, pacing Josh through a lot of B-roll shots and the final run.

In the afternoon of our longest day, the LiftMaster Sprint Cup NASCAR race car was unveiled on the course. The hood of the car bore the 19 names of the Prescott firefighters who lost their lives last year. The ceremony included a color guard of the Phoenix Fire Department, and bell-ringing, followed by the presenation of a $10,000 donation to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation (www.firehero.org). John Granby, VP Lion serves on the NFFF Corporate Advisory Board and is a course official.

Our competition continued into the night, with lighting provided by Sunbelt Rentals- along with two scissor lifts and cooling equipment. We’re greatly appreciative of what our newest sponsor brings to the Challenge.

This weekend, another sponsor, Typhoon Cooling will make their presence known at the Phoenix International Raceway. We’ll provide you with a behinds the scene of this marvelous addition to the course.