Big Red Pull draws a crowd and dollars in support of United Way

Timmins police pulled a fire truck to victory in 31.5 seconds at the second annual Big Red Pull, which raised $18,000 for United Way programs.

The second annual Big Red Pull took over a section of Cedar Street South in Timmins, all in support of community programs funded through United Way Centraide North East Ontario/Nord-est de l’Ontario.

Teams from local businesses, emergency services and community organizations competed to see who could pull a fire truck across the finish line the fastest.

According to Jennifer Gorman, the charity’s regional manager, the Big Red Pull is about more than just competition.

“We have various funding partners like the Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins and victim Services,” she said.

“We also have our internal programs like Keeping Seniors Warm and Ready for School.”

Teams of 10 took turns pulling a full fire truck down the street, testing endurance, coordination and teamwork as crowds cheered them on throughout the two-hour competition.

Participants included emergency responders from the Timmins Fire Department, Cochrane District Paramedic Services and the Timmins Police Service, along with teams from the mining, real estate, education and non-profit sectors.

Firefighter and chief training officer for the Timmins Fire Department, Michael Stansa said the exertion put him out of breath, but told CTV News: “It’s good to see everybody get involved here and have some good team spirit.”

Jean-Marc Bouchard, a Discovery Silver employee, said it started off feeling easy but quickly became a real test of endurance, saying that his legs were “on fire” by the end.

“As it moves further and further while your legs start to give out,” Bouchard said.

Ketrina Garito, also with Discovery, said it was a lot harder than she anticipated.

“I got out there, and I thought it might be easy and then once I started pulling, it was really tough,” said Garito.

Marley Bursey with paramedic services said it was a great opportunity to come together as a team outside of work and enjoy a positive community event.

“We’re all a big team at the base, and it was awesome to come together and have a good time,” said Bursey.

When the final time was recorded, the Timmins Police Service emerged as the fastest team of the day, completing the pull in 31.5 seconds. They edged out last year’s winners, the Timmins Fire Department, by just two seconds.

Police Staff Sgt. Jonathan Minard said the win was the result of strong teamwork.

This year’s Big Red Pull was presented with support from Agnico Eagle, along with contributions from community partners including Lakeshore Gold, Discovery Porcupine, Northern College and the Timmins Fire Department.

Organizers said the event raised more than $18,000 this year – doubling last year’s total.