Police and Firefighters Go Head to Head in the First Responder’s Cup

Last Saturday, 50 representatives from 12 departments across Rockland County gathered at American Made Performance to compete in the second annual First Responders Cup, a high-intensity fitness competition designed to test the strength, endurance, and resilience of local police officers and firefighters.

Hosted by Reps for Responders, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the physical and mental well-being of first responders, the event brought together participants and spectators alike for a day of competition and community building.

Nick Ricciotti, Vice President of Reps for Responders, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the event.

“Our mission is to highlight the influence of physical and mental health on first responders so they can make good decisions on the job, but more importantly, off the job,” Ricciotti said. “Fitness is a huge part of what they do, so we thought what better way to get everyone involved than a competition that embraces community?”

Ricciotti also stressed the real-world importance of preparedness.

“If you haven’t been in a situation yet where the effectiveness of the job is determined by your fitness, that day will come. Whether it’s subduing someone or pulling a person out of a fire, you don’t quit. You push past your limits.”

This year marked a major expansion for the event. While last year’s competition featured only firefighters and 17 participants, the 2026 event welcomed police departments for the first time, significantly increasing both participation and community reach. Ten percent of proceeds will go directly to Reps for Responders to support its ongoing programming.

Emcee Jason Lacayo, Emergency Service Unit Officer with White Plains, said  “Energy is good in here. Definitely more people than last year.” He hyped participants up throughout the day as the responders pushed their bodies to the limit.

The competition consisted of four physically demanding events designed to simulate real-life emergency scenarios:

Event 1: Sandbag Medley

Participants carried increasingly heavy sandbags (50, 100, and 150 pounds) for 15 yards, followed by a backward drag. The Haverstraw Fire Department took first place with a time of 33 seconds.

Event 2: “Reps Complex”

A grueling circuit including deadlifts, pull-ups, sandbag shouldering, dumbbell push press, and an assault bike sprint. The New City Fire Department won with a time of 50.37 seconds. Notably, New York State Police’s Skylar Rosenberg delivered a standout performance, outperforming all competitors in this event.

Event 3: Sandbag Carry

Competitors carried a 150-pound sandbag for distance within a set time. Haverstraw Fire Department once again dominated, covering 180 yards.

Event 4: Farmer’s Hold

A test of grip strength and endurance, where participants held heavy farmer handles for as long as possible. Spring Valley Police Department secured the win with a time of 3 minutes and 39 seconds.

After a full day of competition, the Haverstraw Fire Department emerged as the overall champions. Team members Jahmoul Gordon, Peter Iannone, and Edison Loja took home the First Responders Cup trophy.

For many participants, the event was about more than just winning. “My favorite part was the camaraderie and meeting everyone, knowing how hard we all work,” said New York State Trooper Peter Pjetol.

Jahmoul Gordon of Haverstraw Fire Department said, “You can’t put a price on your health.” He was especially happy to have a redeeming performance after placing second last year behind Congers Fire Department.

Stephen Passanante, owner of American Made Performance, highlighted the broader impact of the competition. “It builds confidence. These departments work together all the time, and when you see how your peers train and take care of themselves, it reinforces trust in their ability to do the job.”

Local officials also showed their support. Deputy County Executive Mike Hoblin, representing County Executive Ed Day, spoke about the long-term benefits of the event.

“Getting to know each other through competition like this will help in the long run. The county thanks you for your service and volunteerism.”

Stony Point Supervisor Amy Stamm added, “Reps for Responders is such a great organization advocating for the physical and mental health of those who are first on the scene in emergencies.”

Beyond the competition, the event continued to grow in scope, featuring local vendors including a chiropractor and coffee services, further reinforcing its community-centered mission. Organizers hope to expand even further next year, with the goal of including every department in Rockland County and moving to a larger venue.

Participating departments included New York State Police, Congers Fire Department, Nyack Fire Department, Haverstraw Fire Department and Police Department, Thiells Fire Department, Rockland County Sheriff’s Department, Stony Point Police Department, Hillcrest Fire Department, Spring Valley Fire Department, Stony Point Fire Department, and New City Fire Department.

With growing participation and community support, the First Responders Cup celebrates not only strength and endurance, but the unity and dedication of those who serve on the front lines.