Seeing the World Through Sports
The love of sports has taken Kristine Franz Ramos around the world. The 41-year-old police seargent in Maliki City, Phillippines grew up playing a variety of sports and earned a basketball scholarship playing with a team that repeatedly won college championships in the Philippines.
After joining the police, Kristine started competing in their police and military league and won medals in several sports. Then came The World Police and Fire Games in 2019, and last summer she brought home a bronze medal in karate from Winnipeg. The experience has literally expanded her perspective.
“Sports represent the ultimate neutral ground, and there’s something about being on neutral ground that draws people together,” she said. “It’s special to compete internationally and find new friends. I also have family abroad who live in the host countries and have been able to visit them.”
Kristine embraces her job with equal passion. “I consider myself a role model. This is my dream to serve and protect my country,” she said. “Knowing that I am making a difference and helping make my country safer is the most rewarding aspect of this job, and it’s what drives me as a police officer every day.”
By Del Moon
- Published in Athlete Spotlight, BHM 2025
Morale Lifters and Record Setters
The 2023 World Police and Fire Games may have been in Winnipeg Canada, but after repeatedly hearing “Fort Worth” and “That’s a new record!” announced at the powerlifting venue one might have thought a cattle drive was coming through from the heart of Texas.
The Fort Worth Police Department Powerlifting Team brought 15 officers, men and women ranging from 23 to their mid 50s to Canada. They came home with 15 medals (nine gold) and established nine new WPFG records in the various events and weight classes. And it’s not their first rodeo.
“Besides promoting fitness within the department, it’s also a big deal for our men and women to go to these games and do so well,” says team co-founder Officer Polo Meza. He recalls seeing the Texas Police Games had powerlifting when he got out of police academy in 2014. After winning gold in his first try, Meza formed a department team in 2015 and has developed a longtime sponsor relationship with The Bolt Street Gym. FWPD has been a regular at WPFG since 2017, racking up records even before their explosive performance in 2023. The team is already setting individual goals for Birmingham next year.
“Our name has grown. For us to continue to do this for this many years is amazing,” Meza says. “Some come and go, but we’ve been going strong as a team.”
It’s hard to find a regular time for police officers to work out, but they manage to hold monthly trainings and have a coach and a personal program to follow on their own. “The energy and motivation is always high when we get together,” Polo notes. “The comeraderie and conversations among us are great. We also strive to be the best to make ourselves, our city and our department look good and feel proud.”
The team has earned the admiration of their peers and beyond. “We try to bridge gaps in the community by hosting open meets here in Fort Worth where civilians and other powerlifters can see officers being just like them,” Meza notes. “We’re not any different than others, and the public doesn’t always see us like that.”
By Del Moon
- Published in Athlete Spotlight, BHM 2025
Like Father, Like Son
Rick Dorey still laughs about how he got started with archery. His West Palm Beach Fire Department was hosting the Florida Firefighter Games in 1994 and needed someone to run archery. He bought a used bow from a pawn shop and learned the sport to better understand it. Rick, 66, has not stopped competing or helping organize shooting events since.
Now retired, Rick has inspired his two sons to not only become firefighters but to also take up the bow and arrow. One of them, Jason, is now also competitng in World Police and Fire Games.
In 2001 Rick attended his first WPFG in Indianapolis and brought home a silver medal. He has competed in 10 of the last 12 games and has tallied 20 gold, 5 silver and 2 bronze medals and holds 2 WPFG records. Jason first stepped to the line with his dad in Amsterdam in 2022 and returned to Winnipeg in 2023. The 42-year-old driver/engineer has already bagged 2 gold, a silver and a bronze medal in WPFG competition.
“I really did it to do something with dad,” Jason said. “It’s a neat experience to see and meet people from around the world.”
Rick doubles down on his son’s point. ”We’ve made friends from around the world and see how other departments work,” he says. “When we were on a cruise to Hong Kong we met and had dinner with a friend who we have shot archery with in the Games for years.”
Rick picked up the sport to help his department out, but he has continued because he views it almost as therapy. “I gtuess I could call it a calming effect. With all that we experience and see as first responders, it’s a release to be able to take a deep breath, settle in, and concentrate on something else so hard that it pushes all that stuff out of your mind.”
Both men are recruiting their peers in Florida to go to Birmingham in 2025. “I’m telling everyone this is the closest it’s ever been and they owe it to themselves to go,” Rick says.
By Del Moon
- Published in Athlete Spotlight, BHM 2025
One-Year Out Celebration for the 2025 World Police & Fire Games
BIRMINGHAM, AL – June 10, 2024 – The countdown is on! Join us on Saturday, June 29, from 11 AM to 4
PM at CityWalk Social for a spectacular, family-friendly event marking the one-year countdown to the 2025
World Police & Fire Games. This FREE, non-ticketed event promises a day filled with excitement, community
spirit, and a sneak peek at the thrilling competitions to come.
Event Highlights:
● Pickleball & Cornhole Tournaments: Enjoy friendly competition with our highlight events – pickleball
and cornhole tournaments. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, everyone is welcome to
join in the fun and showcase their skills.
● Sports of the Games: Experience a taste of the 2025 World Police & Fire Games by trying out various
sports including axe-throwing, chess, golf, table tennis, and more.
● Family-Friendly Activities: Bring your family and friends! The event is designed to be enjoyed by
people of all ages, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained throughout the day.
● 102.5 The Bull: Popular radio host Dino will be broadcasting live from the event, offering concert ticket
giveaways. Don’t miss your chance to win!
● Food Trucks: Enjoy a variety of delicious options from local food trucks!
● First Responder Giveaways: In honor of our brave first responders, there will be special giveaways
and surprises as a token of our appreciation for their unwavering service.
Join Us for a Day of Fun and Competition!
Invite your first responder friends, family, and co-workers to join us for this fun event. For more information and
to register for tournament entry, please scan the QR code on the attached flier or visit our website at
bhm2025.com.
The 2025 World Police & Fire Games will take place in Birmingham, Alabama, June 27 through July 6, 2025.
The event will feature approximately 10,000 first responders from around the world competing in over 60
sports! For more information and to get involved, please contact jessie@bhm2025.com and follow
@bhm2025 on social media.
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About the World Police & Fire Games
The World Police & Fire Games is among the largest international events promoting physical fitness and
camaraderie among first responders. Featuring competitors from law enforcement and fire services across the
globe, the games emphasize the spirit of friendly competition and mutual respect.
- Published in BHM 2025
World Police & Fire Games Adding Firefighter Challenge as an Official Sport of The Games
Birmingham, AL – Two exciting, action-packed sporting events are converging in Birmingham, Alabama in 2025! For
the first time in its 33-year history, the TFT® Firefighter Challenge will be hosted as an official sport in the 2025 World
Police & Fire Games.
“We are honored to be collaborating with the World Police & Fire Games”, says Russell A. Jackson, Chief Executive
Officer of the First Responder Institute. “The admiration we have for their incredible sporting event goes without saying,
and to give firefighters around the world an opportunity to experience the best of what both organizations offers is
very exciting.”
The Birmingham Host Committee for the 2025 World Police & Fire Games is thrilled to announce this partnership as
well. “Once again the Birmingham Host Committee for the 2025 World Police & Fire Games is excited to partner with
Russell Jackson and his team. Bringing the Southeast Regional Classic to compete alongside the world’s First
Responders will be an incredibly exciting first-time addition to the WPFG,” said DJ Mackovets, CEO of the 2025 World
Police & Fire Games.
Firefighters in the SERVPRO® Firefighter Challenge League (FCL) will converge in the Greater Birmingham Area to
compete in the 2025 Southeast Regional Classic of the TFT® Firefighter Challenge Championship Series, during the
course of the BHM 2025 World Police & Fire Games. The public will have a front row seat to witness the physical
talents of these public safety professionals in action on the LION® Arena of the Brave challenge course, deemed by
ESPN as ‘the toughest two minutes in sports.’
Competitors from the designated Southeast states of the FCL will be vying for Southeast titles and records while
firefighters from anywhere in the world will be vying for overall honors. “Many of our incredible firefighter athletes train
year-round to not only perform at their best in this competition but to also be at their best when responding to your
911 emergency”, said Jackson. “This is their opportunity to have fun, earn some bragging rights for their fire
department, and to help inspire the next generation of firefighters.”
TFT® Firefighter Challenge competitors will have an early glimpse into all that Birmingham has to offer during the
2024 Firefighter Challenge US Nationals at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium, to be held September 25 – 28, 2024 in
Hoover, Alabama. Firefighters will run the job skills-based course tackling what are known as the Five Essential
Functions™ wearing full turnout gear and a self-contained breathing apparatus provided by 3M™ Scott Fire & Safety.
Participants have three main categories to compete in: individual, tandem (2-person), and relay (3-5 person).
Competitions simulate the physical demands of real-life firefighting by climbing the five-story tower, hoisting, chopping,
dragging hoses, and rescuing a life-sized, 175-pound “victim” as they race against themselves, their opponents, and
the clock.
- Published in BHM 2025
Birmingham Praised in March WPFG Federation Meetings and Venue Tours
Before the 2025 World Police and Fire Games planning and promotion can proceed, the WPFG Federation leadership needed to visit proposed venues and meet with the Birmingham team to approve plans. Birmingham did not disappoint!
The Birmingham Host Committee was honored to host the WPFG Federation and teams from the 2023 Winnipeg WPFG & 2027 Perth WPFG organizers for an action-packed week to show them what the Magic City has in store. Important information was shared with the closing report from the 2023 Winnipeg Host Committee, as well as a preview from the 2027 Host Committee.
The daily Federation meetings concentrated on details for all aspects of producing this massive first responder event and how the city will roll out the red carpet. Areas beyond sports included athlete recruitment & ambassador program, special events including the opening and closing ceremonies, athletes village, press and media relations, government relations & public safety involvement.
The midday venue tours allowed our visitors and partners to view the city and its top-tier sport & entertainment venues. The group enjoyed walking through the downtown area and the BJCC which will be the hub of activity. The Birmingham team assisted as tour guides through the entire experience.
Evening events included a welcome social at Cahaba Brewing Company and gatherings at The Club and Le Fresca. On other nights we provided detailed entertainment information and allowed our visitors to explore and sample the city. The reviews are in, and they love Birmingham!
The intense work week with the Federation helped finalize many aspects of our hosting plans and the team is now putting the wheels in motion. Watch for more announcements in coming months as the excitement grows for the 2025 World Police & Fire Games!
- Published in BHM 2025
Krista Keeps Her Sunny Side Up
The Caribbean is known for its sunshine, and Krista Francis-Raymah, retired from the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, brings her smile and sunny disposition wherever she travels.
Krista has been a regular figure on the medal podium at World Police and Fire Games for her track and field performances, most recently winning two Gold and two Silver medals at the 2023 World Police and Fire Games in Winnipeg. Her consistent athletic prowess and positive spirit was recognized when Krista was inducted into the World Police and Fire Games Hall of Fame in 2022.
“It’s great! Traveling is one of my hobbies,” she exclaims. “I enjoy every minute of this. I’m going to push to get a big team to come to Birmingham in 2025.”
Athletics has always been part of Krista’s life. She started running at 8 years old, and in her first track competition she won her first race and then won the high jump. At that moment she was hooked on sports. She is quick to add that medals and winning is not the only reason motivating her.
“You want to win, of course, and I’m very competitive,” she asserts. “But after the race, we all hug each other. I love the camaraderie, and making lifelong friendships is special.”
Krista, 59, says her sport activity actually helped direct her towards her firefighting career due to her excellent physical fitness. “I was influenced by a family friend who is now passed who encouraged me to enter the service,” she explains. “I love helping people. As a fire officer we interact with the kids and are always prepared to help people in distress. If your house is on fire, someone is in distress.
“You have to keep your body in shape and eat properly to stay in the winner’s circle, and also to do the work of a firefighter,” she concludes.
The cheery track speedster is proud of her accomplishments and recognition. “I wanted to be a top professional athlete in my country,” she recalls. “It never happened early, but has happened at a masters level. That’s because I have kept consistent with what I was doing so I could achieve the highest level, and now I am in the World Police and Fire Games Hall of Fame!”
Krista is also particularly interested in being a positive influence to young people, especial females. “I am always encouraging women and girls who aspire to be in sports. I encourage them to start at a young age and build it up to be what you want to be.” She then adds with a laugh, “Look at where it got me!”
By Del Moon
- Published in Athlete Spotlight, BHM 2025
Jim’s Beer Trail Guide
If you take a notion to try some local brews, this trail’s for you. Travel along with your imaginary host, Jammin’ Jim, to some of his favorite taprooms and watering holes. Jim loves nothing more than a cold snort of craft beer. Come follow his trail. And remember to Uber when you drink. It’s the smart and safe thing to do.
Good People Brewing Company
114 14th Street South 35233
Located in Birmingham’s burgeoning Parkside District, Good People has some of the highest rated beers in the Southeast. And with interesting names. Jim advises trying Snake Handler or The Muchacho. Named Best Craft Brewery in Alabama by Eat This, Not That!
Avondale Brewing Company
201 41st Street South 35222
Avondale Brewing is housed in an historic building in the heart of the Avondale entertainment district. Stop by for beers in the taproom and watch them craft delicious brews. Try samples of the latest and greatest. Here, you can learn the story of the famous beer-swilling elephant, Miss Fancy.
Trim Tab Brewing Company
2721 5th Avenue South 35233
Voted among the country’s best breweries by Thrillist and Forbes, this small craft operation serves up big taste. Their Tasting Gallery also serves as a music venue and an art gallery for local artists. Jim’s tab here is seldom trim.
Cahaba Brewing Company
4500 5th Avenue South 35222
Jump into this spacious taproom named for the Cahaba River that flows nearby. The brewery is open seven days a week for your thirst-quenching pleasure. With more than 26 taps, this is one of Birmingham’s favorite gathering spots, serving up staples like Blonde, Oka Uba, Pale Ale, and Lager.
Ghost Train Brewing Company
2616 3rd Avenue South 35233
Jim says there’s no need to fear. Blondes, ciders, hoppy, darks and more are on the menu at Ghost Train. For those looking for something other than beer, the brewery also serves margaritas and other cocktails to tempt taste buds.
Birmingham District Brewing Company
2201 2nd Avenue South 35233
With more than 20 years of brewing expertise, the brewers here are dedicated to creating better and bolder beer. While keeping up with beer trends, they also strive to produce unusual brews that keep Jim and other patrons returning time and again.
Back Forty Beer Company
3201 1st Avenue North 35222
This innovative brew team offers a variety of American and European craft beer styles, all brewed on-site and served fresh. With as many as 25 different options on tap, the brewery also serves a creative menu of gourmet pub foods.
True Story Brewing Company
5510 Crestwood Blvd. 35212
Live music accompanies the pleasures of beer on draft at this friendly neighborhood brewery. Interesting beers are brewed in-house with additional rotating guest taps. They also have a good menu of pub foods. What Jim likes is their beer served up alongside pinball, billiards, foosball, and board games.
Slag Heap Brewing Company
227 Main Street, Trussville 35173
Jim loves the beer descriptions here—especially the Left on 11 Double IPA, said to calm your road rage. He also recommends the Q’s Moneypenny, an English style pub ale, low hop bitterness, low ABV, very malt forward.
Ferus Artisan Ales
101 Beech St., Trussville 35173
It’s well worth it to venture out from the city to the community of Trussville to explore this brewpub and restaurant. As their name suggests, they take pride in their wild and unusual sour beers, along with crisp pilsners, flavored stouts, and barrel aged beers. Jim likes to hop forward with their IPAs. There’s also a great adjoining area to catch some free live concerts and movies on the big screen while you sip.
The Grocery Brewpub
2823 Central Avenue, Homewood 35209
Good food and great brews are the attraction at this brewpub in the Birmingham suburb of Homewood. Taco Tuesdays pack the house, and a beautiful lineup of drafts on tap are enjoyed along with frequent live music.
Monday Night Brewing
14 12th Street South 35233
Monday Night Social Club serves more than 25 brews on tap, including house-made beers, small batch IPAs, barrel-aged and sour beers, and guest taps from other local breweries. Had your fill of beer? They also have a full bar with wine and cocktails. Jim goes there for the Fast & Furious references.
Download Jim’s Beer Trail Guide
Source: https://www.birminghamal.org/
- Published in BIRMINGHAM
First Look: Inside Protective Stadium at the BJCC
Birmingham’s sports scene will soon have a big new addition.
On Oct. 2, UAB will take the field against Liberty University at the new Protective Stadium at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex.
The stadium’s debut will make a huge victory for UAB Football, which was shut down nearly seven years ago before a remarkable – and successful rebirth. But it will also mark a pivotal point for Birmingham, which had been debating the merits of a new downtown football venue for decades.
The nearly $180 million stadium will seat 45,000 fans. It was built by Birmingham’s Brasfield & Gorrie with a number of local firms also involved in the project. In addition to UAB Football, the stadium will host a number of other sporting events, including the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2022 World Games. It also helped lure the Alabama state football championships back to the Magic City on a rotating basis.
Take a first look at the new stadium in the gallery above and look for more coverage about Protective Stadium and its impact on Birmingham at BBJ.com in the weeks to come.
Source: https://www.bizjournals.com
- Published in BHM 2025
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