NEWRY – The Jay Fire Department edged out 15 other teams to take first place in the 19th annual Firefighters’ Race at Sunday River.

The race is a fundraiser benefiting Maine Handicapped Skiing.

Jay’s winning time was 30.05 seconds, topping second place Bethel by only .07 seconds. Third went to Portland, at .18 seconds behind Jay.

Firefighters in full turnout gear raced down a giant slalom course on the Tempest trail toting 50 feet of fire hose as they skied. Teams were composed of skiers, snowboarders and snowbladers.

Another aspect of the day was the Eat the Heat Chili Cookoff where 12 slow-cooking teams offered up their best batches of chili. The judge’s scores combined to award first place to Cho Sun from Bethel. Runner-up was Gringo Harry’s from Newry, with Rooster’s Roadhouse from Bethel finishing third. The People’s Choice went to the Barking Dog of Newry.

All proceeds from the events went to Maine Handicapped Skiing. In total, the weekend raised over $250,000 for the non-profit organization.


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