Proudly Supporting Gibraltar at FireFit Championships

At Masbro, we’re proud to support local initiatives. That’s why we’re backing the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service as they prepare to compete at the 2025 European FireFit Championships in Toruń, Poland on 20th and 21st June.

We spoke to Firefighter Matthew Coulthard, Team Captain for this year’s challenge, to learn more about the team’s training and why it matters to represent Gibraltar on the international stage.
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Who’s taking part in this year’s challenge? 

It is with great pleasure and excitement that we will be travelling to the beautiful city of Toruń, Poland, with a team of seven firefighters to compete in the European FireFit Championships. Representing Gibraltar are: Leading Firefighter Matt Coulthard (46), Firefighter Julian McGrail (44), Firefighter Bernie Vaughan (40), Firefighter Jordan Perez (38), Firefighter Paul Tinkler (40), Firefighter Lython Marquez (30), and the youngest member of the team, Firefighter Julian Avellano (26).

For those unfamiliar with FireFit, how would you describe the competition and what it involves?

The FireFit Championships is an international competition based on intense, real-world firefighting tasks. Competitors wear full firefighter ‘bunker’ gear and breathing apparatus as they take on a physically demanding course. Events include a tower run while carrying a 20kg pack, a hose haul to the top of the tower, a rapid descent to the forcible entry machine, a slalom sprint, hose drag, and finally, a 40m rescue drag of a ‘Randy’ manikin to the finish line. Each of these tasks is challenging on its own, but doing them back-to-back makes this one of the toughest firefighter fitness challenges in the world.

Why are you taking part?

Firefighters from across the globe come together to represent their services, showcasing their commitment to remaining operationally fit and ready to protect their communities. For us, it’s about pride in our profession, the camaraderie that binds firefighters worldwide, and the shared understanding of our calling. The FireFit competition is an opportunity to demonstrate our skills in a spirited and friendly environment, build lifelong friendships, and celebrate what it means to serve.

What kind of training does the team undertake to prepare for an event like this?

Training for FireFit is both physically demanding and highly specific. Just as in our operational duties, firefighters need to be ready at a moment’s notice. We focus on building explosive strength, cardiovascular endurance, agility, and mental resilience, mirroring the demands of real emergency situations. It’s a combination of intense circuit training, functional fitness, and scenario-based drills.

Why is it important for Gibraltar to be represented at FireFit?

The Gibraltar Fire & Rescue Service is unique in its scope of responsibilities, from structural and high-rise & ship firefighting, road traffic collisions and dive rescues, to mountain and hazardous materials response. Competing on the international stage gives us the opportunity to demonstrate the high standards and professionalism of our service. It earns us the respect of our peers and shines a spotlight on Gibraltar as a hub of excellence in firefighting.

How does the challenge reflect the skills and fitness required in everyday firefighting?

Each element of the race simulates real-life scenarios firefighters face in emergencies. Performing these tasks under competition pressure allows us to refine our techniques, build endurance, and maintain peak fitness. The challenge environment tests our abilities in a safer, controlled setting, ensuring that when real incidents occur, we’re ready to act decisively and effectively. Ultimately, it helps us do our job safely and ensures we return home to our families.

What are you most looking forward to about competing in Poland?

Some of us have competed in Toruń before. It’s a beautiful city rich in history and architecture. While we’re excited to visit again, what truly excites us is the chance to reunite with our firefighter brothers and sisters from around the world. These are friendships forged through shared experience and mutual respect. The camaraderie, competitive spirit, and sense of global unity make it a truly special event.

How can the public follow your progress and support the team?

You can follow our journey on Instagram and Facebook, where we’ll be posting regular updates on our training and progress throughout the competition. Just search for “Gibraltar Firefighter Challenge Team” to stay connected and show your support!

Finally, what would you say to someone thinking about a future career with Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service?

Being a firefighter in Gibraltar is an incredible privilege. It’s a role that demands physical strength, mental resilience, and continuous academic development to stay competent. If you’re someone who is selfless, passionate about fitness, and driven to serve your community, then this career may be for you. It’s a job filled with purpose and as the saying goes, do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.

Supporting our community is central to who we are. If your organisation is working on a meaningful initiative and would like to partner with us, get in touch at info@masbro.gi.