Spectators must have thought “Where’s the Fire” on Saturday night as two Continental Volunteer Fire Department Firemen ran through the streets of Columbus Grove during the St Anthony of Padua Festival 5K run. Continental Firemen Damon Schmidt and Chris Baden donned their firefighting jackets and pants and ran the 3.1 mile course in hot (mid -80s) and humid conditions. Damon and Chris were running for a cause as they sought to promote the Fire Department’s Toys for Tots campaign. Earlier in the day, both competed in the annual CHS Alumni Soccer game. Look for them at the Glandorf Turtle Trot 5k and the Kalida Pioneer Days 4 miler as they continue their fundraising endeavor.
A big shout out to the crowd at Columbus Grove as they cheered on the firefighters at every turn. Damon and Chris finished with an unofficial time of 31:48. Over 300 runners ran in the race.
–Mike Jones, Sportswriter
