Luciano Cardona, a member of the El Campello Local Police, made his mark at the XIX World Police and Fire Games held this weekend in Rotterdam, Netherlands. His performance arrived after months of careful preparation, driven by the goal of achieving a strong result in his discipline and representing his team with pride. The event brought together law enforcement officers and firefighters from around the globe, turning Rotterdam into a hub of athletic competition and international camaraderie. Cardona’s drive translated into a standout jump that placed him at the pinnacle of the podium, underscoring the level of dedication that competitors bring to this biennial gathering. The Games run through July 31, continuing a tradition that pauses only for extraordinary circumstances. The 2020 edition faced a pause caused by a global health crisis, but the organization and athletes returned with renewed energy and a clear focus on fair competition and personal bests.
In the context of the Games, participants train with a blend of sport-specific drills and general fitness to meet the rigorous standards each event demands. The El Campello City Council highlighted Cardona’s preparation, noting the combination of technical skill, mental focus, and physical resilience needed to compete against a field that includes current professionals and seasoned retirees from police and fire services alike. The event serves as more than a competition; it is a showcase of the athleticism and teamwork that police and firefighting personnel bring to their communities, both at home and on the international stage.
Open to active personnel and retirees from police, fire, and related public safety services worldwide, the World Police and Fire Games stand as one of the largest events of its kind. It ranks second only to the Olympic Games in global participation, surpassing other major multi-sport gatherings such as the Commonwealth Games in sheer turnout. This year, the lineup features more than 10,000 athletes representing over 60 countries, competing across 63 disciplines. The program spans traditional track and field events, swimming, golf, basketball, tennis, cycling, taekwondo, and crossfit, along with discipline-specific activities like vertical running, stair climbing, police shooting, and police dog demonstrations. Each day offers multiple opportunities for athletes to push personal boundaries, test teamwork, and celebrate the shared spirit of service and sport.