Pedalling for excellence: representing Lethbridge at the 2025 World Police & Fire Games

Local firefighter-paramedic Patrick Berry is preparing to represent Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES), the City of Lethbridge and Canada on the international stage. He’ll compete in mountain biking at the 2025 World Police & Fire Games, taking place June 27 to July 6 in Birmingham, Alabama.

The World Police & Fire Games is one of the largest multi-sport events in the world, welcoming more than 8,500 athletes from 70 countries. Open to firefighters, police officers and corrections personnel, the event promotes camaraderie, wellness and friendly competition. 

This will be Berry’s second time competing at the Games. In Winnipeg, in 2023, he placed fourth in his age category in the mountain biking event. 

“It was an incredible experience,” says Berry. “The Games are a great opportunity to meet others from around the world, share stories and represent your department.”

This year, Berry will compete in two mountain bike events: the short track and the Olympic cross country (XCO). Both races will take place at Oak Mountain State Park, a venue known for its technical terrain, fast descents and steep climbs. 

“The course looks great, but racing in the Alabama heat and humidity will definitely be a challenge,” says Berry. “That’s a big adjustment coming from the dry conditions we are used to in southern Alberta.”

Berry trains seven to nine hours per week, balancing his schedule around family life and shift work. During the winter, most of his training happened indoors using a smart trainer and a structured plan. Now that the weather has improved, he’s outside riding trails as much as possible. 

One of his favourite spots is Six Mile Coulee, just behind Lethbridge Polytechnic.

“There’s lots of flowy singletrack, good climbs and it’s close to home,” he says. “‘Violets tendencies’ is probably my favourite trail out there.”

Berry raced competitively in his teenage years and returned to the sport about five years ago. He typically enters two to three races per season, including recent events in Canmore and Taber. His next tune-up race is June 12, where he’ll line up for both short track and XCO events. Two of his children will be racing that day as well. 

“Making biking a family sport helps keep us all involved,” says Berry. “My seven and nine-year-olds are confidently riding trails while my 11-year-old is showing great progress on more challenging trails.”

Berry is grateful for the support he’s received from IAFF Local 237, who are helping cover travel costs. He’ll be travelling to Alabama with his family, and his son will serve as his feed-zone support during the race – handing him water bottles and encouragement every lap.

“It means a lot to have my family there. I really appreciate the support from my wife for letting our family vacation revolve around my hobby and giving me time to get out and ride,” he says. “And it means a lot to represent LFES. This is a big, international event, and I’m proud to represent Lethbridge.”

His race-day gear includes a Norco Revolver, purchased locally at Ascent Cycle. The shop is also lending him a travel case for transporting the bike.

Berry’s goal for the Games is simple:

“I want to build on what I did last time and have a strong performance I’m proud of. You never know who you’ll be racing against, so I just want to be ready.”

Berry’s events take place on June 29 (Short Track) and June 30 (XCO). Results will be shared on LFES’ social media. 

“I’m always up for a ride – fast or slow. Getting out on the trails is the best part,” says Berry. “It’s great to stay active, push yourself and be part of something bigger.”

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.