This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Utah firefighters, along with CrossFit coaches, are challenging the state's athletes and non-athletes to take part in a special CrossFit workout to raise money for the families of Arizona's 19 fallen firefighters.
The "19 Heroes Remembered" fundraiser will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday at the East High School Soccer Stadium, 840 S. 1300 East, Salt Lake City, and will include a specially designed workout and a raffle.
The 19 members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, many of whom were CrossFitters, according to a fundraiser press release, were killed June 30 when they were overcome by a swift, erratic blaze near Prescott, Arizona.
Layton City Fire Department Firefighter and Paramedic John Pettijohn, who has battled blazes throughout the West during the past 15 years, helped organize the fundraiser.
Many firefighters keep in shape through CrossFit training, a high intensity strength and conditioning program used in more than 6,100 gyms in the U.S., according to the press release.
"We want to honor the bravery and dedication of the firefighters and help the families of the young men that made the ultimate sacrifice," said Pettijohn.
Everyone is encouraged to take part in the workout, or just come to donate and be involved with the raffle. Participants do not have to be CrossFit athletes or even athletes.
All Utah gym owners are also encouraged to participate at the event in Salt Lake City or at their own gyms.
Donations can be made in person at the event, or at https://hotshots19.crossfit.com/