For the 2009 Western States Police and Fire Games Community Invited to Enjoy Free Olympic-Style Competition June 13 to 20, 2009
The 2010 Winter Olympics is more than a year away, but in just a few weeks Southern California residents can enjoy one of the area’s most exciting multi-sport events when the 2009 Western State Police & Fire Games (WSPFG) come to Los Angeles June 13 to June 20, 2009.
More than 5,000 police and fire personnel will participate in more than 50 sporting events being hosted in the Santa Clarita Valley and neighboring Southland communities as part of this exciting annual event. Events include everything from traditional sports like baseball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and football to sports like ultimate firefighter, weight lifting, karate, wakeboarding, dodge ball, archery, mud run, paintball, billiards, horseshoe, and more. Law enforcement and firefighters from across the country will compete in the games, which test the mental and physical strength of competitors.
“This really is a regional event for Los Angeles. Our attendees are coming from across the Western half of the United States to experience a California getaway. We chose Santa Clarita not only because of the great sporting facilities, but because it is conveniently located within minutes of Los Angeles sporting venues and points of interest,” said Los Angeles Police Chief Richard Barrantes, who serves as executive director of the 2009 WSPFG. “This is really going to drive our attendance.”
Because the City of Santa Clarita serves as the host for the event, key sports such as basketball, softball, soccer, baseball, boxing, karate, ½ marathon, golf, and flag football, will take place at City facilities including Central Park, the Santa Clarita Sports Complex, and the Aquatic Center among other facilities. Numerous events will also be played on William S. Hart District fields and at College of the Canyons. Attendance is free and residents and visitors are encouraged to come out and support the events and participants.
“We could not be more pleased to serve as host City for the Games,” said City of Santa Clarita Mayor Frank Ferry. “So many fire and police professionals call Santa Clarita home and it’s a pleasure to work in coordination with Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Athletic Association to support an event that promotes camaraderie, healthy living, and the spirit of competition.”
Community Events Open to Residents
Numerous entertainment events are scheduled to take place as part of the WSPFG during the evenings, providing opportunities for residents and competitor’s family members to enjoy the community and its diverse offerings.
Highlights for the week and opportunities for the community and residents to get involved with the games include the following:
My Classic Rock Band will be playing at Hyatt Regency Valencia opening day Saturday, June 13. Bodybuilding is expected to attract hundreds of spectators Sunday, June 14, at the College of the Canyons, Performing Arts Center. Boxing is always a crowd pleaser and one of the WSPFG’s most anticipated events. Boxing is schedule to take place Monday, June 15, Tuesday, June 16, Wednesday, June 17, and Friday, June 19 at Santa Clarita Studios. Tuesday night, June 16 the community is invited to rock out at an outdoor free concert on Town Center Drive in front of the Hyatt Regency Valencia featuring classic rock band, Ace from 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Ace has been voted by Los Angeles Magazine as Los Angeles’ number one “live” dance band in Southern California. Thursday night, June 18 is “Law Enforcement and Firefighter Night” at Saddle Ranch Chop House in Universal City.
There are many ways for residents and businesses to get involved with the 2009 Western States Police & Fire Games, including exciting volunteer opportunities for adults 18 and older. Volunteer opportunities include registration, merchandise sales, score keeping, timekeeping, logistical and operational support. Volunteers receive a free T-shirt and lunch. Business can also be a part of the Games, with visibility at the registration expo and through sponsorship opportunities.
Volunteers and business owners interested in learning more should call 323-526-5757 or visit WSPFG2009.org for more information.