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RODEO 2009: Fit-to-fight kicks off first competition

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Erika Wonn
  • RODEO 2009 Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Air Mobility RODEO 2009 continued here today with a fit-to-fight competition involving more than 100 teams participating in the standard Air Force fitness test of pushups, sit-ups and the 1.5-mile run. Although RODEO 2009 is mainly focused on combat skills and flying operations, it also encompasses one of the Air Force's highest priorities: fitness among its Airmen. 

As the competitors lined up to complete the events, the rest of their team stood by cheering them on loudly. Teams rooted for their competitors enthusiastically, chanting cheers and waving banners all through the competition grounds. An especially jubilant group of participants were the international teams. 

The German team was excited to compete, and sure that their team would be able to live up to the challenge at hand, according to team members. 

"In Germany, fitness is a basic (need) for effective military operations," said German paratrooper Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jack Weber. "In addition to individual exercise, we attend mandatory physical training and partake in a group activity like volleyball or soccer once a week." 

The Israeli air force was also very excited to partake in the RODEO events, especially the fitness competition. 

"Fitness is already important in our military, and we are definitely using the U.S. as an example, " said Israeli Maj. Jakira Amiram, who's team boasts two marathon runners among their fitness participants -- and one of them a 57-year-old maintenance technician. "Fitness is a way of life and the Israeli air force promotes its importance among airmen as well as a healthy diet and lifestyle." 

Major Amiram also commented how important it was for them to attend this year, and see how Americans and other air forces do the same job they do. "It's nice to see how teams differ, and also the landscape is so different. We don't have mountains like this in Israel," he said. 

The different landscape not only impressed some of the teams, but also posed as a quandary for others. One Malaysian participant found the cooler and drier Washington weather to burn his throat as he ran. 

"In Malaysia it is much more humid," said Malaysian team evaluator Major Azril Omree. Although Major Omree said winning was important, he said participating was much more important. "If you aren't allowed to compete you can't possibly win. It's good we got the chance to do this," he said. 

The international teams weren't the only ones enjoying the fitness challenge at the "Fit to Fight" event. American teams from all over the U.S. and abroad were ready to show their stuff. Many onlookers cheered from the sidelines. 

"There's no smiling in RODEO, especially in 'Fit to Fight'," Staff Sgt. Steven Tate from Travis Air Force Base, Calif., jokingly said. "As a satellite communications Airmen you must be fit. We do a lot of heavy lifting and building of equipment. If you aren't fit, it could definitely affect your Air Force career." 

Near the finish line, other team members ran with their participants applauding them on their way. The Belgium team was especially enthusiastic waving their country's flag and holding a banner that said "Have no fear, the Belgians are here." 

The finish of the race was definitely an example of the goodwill and camaraderie established with international partners during RODEO competitions. High fives were flying all around from team-to-team, showing how this and other events in the RODEO help foster stronger relationships amongst the competitors. 

The winning scores won't be known until later this week, but one thing is for sure -- the military of all countries greatly values the fitness of its service members, along with teamwork and camaraderie.