What started out as a far-fetched idea is becoming a reality this Summer in Fairfax, Va.
Back in 199, a handful of Virginia-based police officers and firefighters were enjoying their trip to Stockholm, Sweden, participating in the biannual World Police and Fire Games. There, they began wondering if it would be possible to one day bring the Olympic-esque games to their home state of Virginia.
After more than 10 years of hard work, the first responders won the bid for the 2015 World Police and Fire Games.
This Summer, Fairfax will accommodate police, fire and other public safety officers, and their families, representing more than 70 countries worldwide.
While goodwill is the under-riding theme for the Games, there is still a healthy dose of serious competition to be found throughout the events, which range from swimming, to darts, to ice hockey.
The event will be so large, those interested in placing a bid for the 2024 Olympic Games in Washington have been in contact with the Fairfax 2015 committee, looking for advice.
The Fairfax 2015 World Police and Fire Games are free to the public and will celebrate opening ceremonies on July 25, 2015.