Sneak Peek Of World Police & Fire Games Coming to Reston

It is still one year until the World Police & Fire Games come to Fairfax County, but there is a chance to get in on the fun next weekend at Reston Town Center.

Fairfax 2015 is hosting a community day on Sunday, July 13 from noon to 6 p.m.

There will be a full day of sports, music and fun so visitors can get a sneak peek at the 2015 World Police & Fire Games events, which organizers say is the largest multi-sport competition ever staged in the Washington metropolitan area. 

Among the activities:

• Live demonstrations of Honor Guard, Muster Carts, K9, Police Motors, Lawfit, Tug of War, Darts, Martial Arts and Sub Grappling — most of which will be competitions in the 2015 World Games next summer.
• Kids Zone featuring face painting, a visit from Emmie the friendly clown, and an ultimate fire fighter activity.
• A full lineup of fire engines, police and sheriff cruisers for children to explore.
• Visit the Sheriff’s Office booth and get a free ID card for your child.
• A local DJ will perform live throughout.   

From June 26 through July 5, 2015, more than 12,000 officers from police, fire and public safety departments in 70 countries will compete in 60 individual and team sports as well as police-and-fire-specific activities, such as ultimate firefighter.

The competition is held every other year. The 2013 Games were in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The Fairfax games will take place at 53 venues in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.  

Reston will play a key role. Reston Town Center will serve as the Athletes Village for the event. Athletes Village is the location for registration, information, competitions, nightly entertainment and socializing with fellow athletes.

Games officials estimate that the Fairfax County economy will see a direct benefit of $60 to $80 million dollars from the event.

Reston will also be the venue for some of the sports competition, though details are still being finalized. Weightlifting and Honor Guard competitions will be at the Hyatt Regency Reston. Officials are also looking into a Dodgeball competition held here, as well as the open water swim and a cycling event.

Photo: Competitor at 2013 World Police & Fire Games/Credit: Discover Northern Ireland