Sunny Isles Beach Sgt. Wins Medal at Police & Fire Games
By Sgt. R. Thomas Hopkins - Public Information Officer

Thirteen! For most of us this is an unlucky number and an omen of bad luck to occur. Not so for Sergeant Ray Atesiano, who for the thirteenth consecutive year has medaled at the Florida Police and Fire Games (formally known as the Police Olympics). This year's games were held the week of June 20, 2004 throughout St. Lucie and Martin Counties. Ray competed on June 21st, in his specialty - the bench press. With a lift of '495' pounds he equaled the second best lift in his age/weight class and was awarded the bronze medal. Ray was accompanied by his colleague and training partner, Sergeant Eddie Santiago, to the competition featuring law enforcement, fire personnel and correction officers from throughout the state of Florida. He gives credit to Eddie for his help in training for this event and in helping to 'pump him up' during his lifts. Because he has medaled at the state level, Sergeant Atesiano qualified for and will compete at the International Police and Fire Games to be held in Las Vegas this August. Both Atesiano and Santiago supervise the midnight shift where they - pardon the pun - do more than pull their weight.

Other members of the department competed, as well, in other events. They are Sergeant John Wyche, Detective Keith Burrows and Detective Thao Doan who competed in flag football, combining forces with the City of Miami. They won several games and lost a few close ones to barely keep them out of medal contention. The good news is they enjoyed themselves, were pleased with their efforts and came back to work fully ambulatory.

Chief Fred Maas and yours truly once again hooked up with fellow officers of the Miami Beach Police Department to form an over 40 softball team. This team also failed to medal but competed well in all of the five games that we played. Both of us agree that it was wonderful to be able to participate with a great group of guys and play a game we enjoy. The entire competition gave us a chance to see old friends and share information and developing issues. My favorite time came after our games, where we would barbeque, kick back, reminisce and feel good to be associated with such a great group of individuals who serve our communities.

We salute all the competitors who train or practice year round for the event and wish them even better luck for next year's competition.


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