Eerie, PA, to Host 2026 Firefighter Challenge U.S. National Championship

Erie, PA – The city of Erie, PA, has been selected to host the 2026 United States National Firefighter Challenge Championship, presented by Snap-tite Hose, a leading manufacturer of highperformance firefighting hose with factories in Erie County. The event will bring hundreds of firefighter athletes, their families, and fans from across the nation and beyond to Erie for a week of elite competition, community engagement, and celebration of fire service excellence.

The championship will take place Sept. 23–26, 2026, marking the culmination of the annual Firefighter Challenge season and building on the success of the 2025 Northeast Region Classic, also held in Erie. That regional event marked the Challenge’s first return to Erie in more than twenty years and drew widespread praise for its organization, strong community support, and record participation.

A Tradition of Strength, Skill, and Service

“The Firefighter Challenge is more than a competition—it’s a living tribute to the strength, endurance, and commitment that define the fire service,” said James Novinsky CEO at Snap-tite Hose. “We’re proud to bring the national championship home to Erie and to help shine a spotlight on the firefighters who protect our communities every day.” 

Competitors—many of them active-duty or retired firefighters—will test their strength, speed, and skill on a grueling, timed course that simulates real firefighting tasks including stair climbs, hose drags, forcible entry, and victim rescues. Known as “the toughest two minutes in sports,” the Challenge has become a premier showcase of firefighter fitness and teamwork.

Erie’s Moment

Erie’s selection as host city recognizes its exceptional support for the fire service, its capacity to stage large-scale events, and its welcoming, community-driven spirit.

“After the energy and success of last summer’s Northeast Region Classic, it was clear Erie had everything needed to host a world-class championship,” said Russell Jackson, CEO of the First Responder Institute. “The setting, the hospitality, and the partnership with Snap-tite Hose make this a perfect fit for our national stage.”

What to Expect

• Four days of competition in downtown Erie featuring individual, tandem, and relay events
• Public viewing areas and interactive exhibits for spectators and families
• Vendor and sponsor showcase, including leading fire-service brands
• Community and youth engagement events highlighting fitness and fire safety
• Economic impact through regional tourism, hospitality, and business participation

About the Firefighter Challenge Championship Series

The Firefighter Challenge Championship Series promotes fitness, readiness, and teamwork in the fire service through regional and national competitions that simulate the physical demands of realworld firefighting. Each event is designed to encourage firefighter wellness and inspire public appreciation for the men and women who serve and protect their communities.

About Snap-tite Hose

For more than 55 years, Snap-tite Hose has set the industry standard for quality and safety in layflat hose for municipal, forest firefighting, oil and gas applications, slurry, and mining. Increasing survivability of both firefighters and civilians, while supporting the local community, Snap-tite Hose is committed to manufacturing the best products that are reliable, dependable, and resistant to tough conditions. Snap-tite’s holds several patents and is the only North American hose manufacturer certified ISO9001:2015. With locations in both Union City and Fairview, Pennsylvania, Snap-tite Hose employs 170 people and has been an integral partner to firefighters since 1969. To learn more visit https://snaptitehose.com/.