Epic charity challenge by Bucks Firefighters to mark 9/11 anniversary
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A team of firefighters from Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue will attempt an astonishing challenge as they run/walk a 6km route from West Ashland Fire Station to Xscape Milton Keynes on Saturday 11 September 2021 to mark the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City.
They will each carry over 80lbs of breathing apparatus and kit for the full length of the route, that’s the same weight as an average 11 year old – but the challenge doesn’t stop there. Once they reach Xscape they’ll ascend the internal stairs of the building – that’s over 198 steps and a height of over 140 ft – before coming back down again!
They will be joined by a second team made up of other emergency services personnel, following the same route but running in PPE and fitness gear. The challenge is to raise funds for both The Fire Fighters Charity and the NYC-based charity The Stephen Siller Foundation.
To mark this extraordinary event, the front piazza at Xscape Milton Keynes will host a free event for spectators to cheer the runners home; there will be a static fire engine display, visitors will be able to get fire safety advice, children can explore the play firehouse to learn more, there’ll even be some traditional stocks to help cool the runners down, and of course anyone can make a donation on the day, or you can donate via https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/westashlantunneltotowers
Chris Montague, Watch Commander at West Ashland Fire Station, said, “This challenge means so much to the team at Bucks Fire & Rescue. All the heroes on that fateful day will be forever remembered for their bravery and by undertaking this challenge in their memory we’re aiming to raise money to help charities on both sides of the Atlantic. We look forward to welcoming spectators to support the Fire Fighters on the day.”
Nick Coppock, General Manager at Xscape Milton Keynes, commented, “We have a long-standing relationship with Bucks Fire & Rescue as they have used the Xscape building for a range of training purposes in the past. We are only too happy to be involved with this epic challenge to raise funds for two incredible charities. We wish the team the very best of luck.”