By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – In the summer of 2025, Pelham will help host one of the year’s biggest sporting events.

The 2025 World Police and Fire Games are set to be held in the greater Birmingham area, with Pelham hosting various events as a part of the competition. Thousands will compete in the games from Friday, June 27 to Sunday, July 6.

The games feature more than 1,600 medal events, and are comparable to the Summer Olympics in size. First responders from around the world will travel to the Magic City to compete in events that include archery, basketball, swimming and more. It is estimated that more than 8,500 athletes are expected to participate in the games, with more than 70 countries represented.

The natural ambience and amenities of Oak Mountain State Park and the ability of the Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena to host ice-themed events qualified both venues to be in use for the 2025 Games.

Oak Mountain is Alabama’s largest state park, and will hold various cycling, swimming and boating competitions for the games. The Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena will exclusively host ice hockey.

The games are exclusively for first responders, either current or retired. The Pelham Fire Department is set to field their own hockey team to participate in the ice hockey tournament of the games.

Furthermore, there are several specialized events that relate to each first responder’s profession. For example, police officers will have the opportunity to participate in competitive motorcycle riding, and firefighters will participate in muster and stair race competitions.

Pelham Fire Chief Mike Reid emphasized the unique opportunity Pelham has in hosting such a prestigious event.

“For our participants, it’s very cool to be close to home,” Reid said. “At least three to five Pelham firefighters are competing in the Ultimate Firefighter competition, which is much like the Firefighter Combat Challenge competition.”

The Ultimate Firefighter competition and Firefighter Combat Challenge competition are challenges composed of various tasks that test a firefighter’s physical and mental abilities while also challenging them to successfully perform the tasks the job of firefighting requires.

While the job of a first responder is never done, Reid added that the games provide a unique opportunity for some of the world’s bravest to test themselves in a different, more public way.

“Their above-and-beyond mentality embodies the qualities that make them exceptional in their roles,” Reid said. “The games allow the public to appreciate the athleticism and commitment of first responders while enjoying a fun and competitive atmosphere. This whole event is a great time to come out and watch some of the best athletes in public safety compete and also have a great time with your brothers and sisters in red and blue. We are a big fraternity of public servants who love to compete at everything we do.”

For more information on the 2025 World Police & Fire Games, as well as which events Pelham is hosting, visit Bhm2025.com.