On 29th September, a group of 142 flew to New York to take part in the 2007 5K Tunnel to Towers Run/Walk. We were joined by over 30 more firefighters that were there on their own steam. After a short delay (the plane broke down on the runway and had to be jump-started!), we took off for a seven hour flight.
Within a few hours even the night owls began to doze off. Once we had landed and been through the rigorous and exhausting security checks at JFK Airport, we arrived at the hotel refreshed for a night out.
The hotel was located perfectly, just on Madison Square Gardens so it was close to the shops, bars and all the action in the heart of Manhattan.
After everyone had settled in their rooms, including reallocating one guy a new room after he entered his original room to find an elderly lady in the shower, we headed out on the town for a few beers. Of course, not too many as the run was the next morning, so it was all to bed early for a good night's sleep; well, I say all, more like some. Others kept going til sunrise!
The morning of the run promised a beautiful day and after meeting in reception all seemed well. We were proceeding to the station when I can admit that I made a major error. I trusted a fellow firefighter and mate (not naming names) to lead us to the venue via his short-cut. Needless to say, we got lost and arrived with thirty minutes to spare. Funnily enough, we weren't the only ones to take a small detour, some ended up confused at an old lady's house, two miles from the venue, but eventually everyone turned up in the right place, ready to go.
After rounding everyone up for our gigantic group photograph, we took our place at the front of thousands of people with the elite runners and the New York Fire Service. To say they appreciated us would be a huge understatement; the atmosphere was incredible.
The run itself begins entering the two-mile tunnel heading towards Manhattan and the site of Ground Zero. Within the tunnel were 263 New York firefighters, in full undress, with national flags and poster-sized photographs of all the firefighters that died on 9/11. This was very moving and it really brought home the reason for the run.
Once we had exited the tunnel we continued round the harbour and finished at an enormous street party where we were all treated with overwhelming hospitality. The rest of the day was spent socialising in various venues and all seemed to have a good time. This left the following day for everyone to explore New York and its tourist attractions.
I think I can safely say that everyone had a great trip and I believe that it will become more and more popular in future years.
Steve Gilbey Co-Host and Executive Member