Hurricane Irma pushed back an annual event for Orange County Fire Rescue.

  • 343 Hero Challenge event held Saturday
  • Event honors fallen firefighters of 9/11
  • Event usually held near 9/11 anniversary; pushed back due to Irma

The 343 Hero Challenge honors fallen firefighters of 9/11 and is traditionally held in September near the anniversary of 9/11.

It was postponed until Saturday and was held at the Orange County Fire Rescue Training Facility in Winter Park. 

The workouts and firefighting tasks simulate the actions of the 343 fallen firefighters on 9/11. 

"It was tough but it was worth it. I try to do something--either compete or volunteer--every year," said firefighter Janice Davis. 

"We start with a 3 minute and 43 second box climb which simulates the guys climbing up to the floor where they were going to fight fire," said firefighter James Geering. 

Geering said the event is also a way to honor all injured or fallen firefighters. He wore the names of local firefighters for all to see during the challenge. ​

"It's just a way to remember 9/11, because some people tend to forget what it cost, so it's an honor to do it for them," firefighter Lindsey Gay said. 

About 100 people participated.​

Officials said this is the largest United Way fundraiser for Orange County Fire Rescue. 

Money raised goes to the Florida Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, so it directly impacts firefighters in Florida.