Law enforcement members and firefighters from around the world have gathered this week in Birmingham for an international competition featuring some of the most skilled and talented first responders in the field.
One of the world’s largest multi-sport events, the annual World Police and Fire Games has brought over 8,500 competitors from over 70 countries to the Magic City.
The games feature more than 70 sporting events, including specialized competitions such as Police Pistol Combat, Toughest Competitor Alive, and Ultimate Firefighter, alongside traditional sports like basketball, weightlifting, cycling, and soccer. Venues across the Birmingham area are accommodating the diverse range of events.
Two of the many competitors from across the globe, Regional Superintendent Eric Oliver and Special Agent Jay Lacy of the Norfolk Southern Police Department, are excited about the opportunity to compete on an international level. The two have over 35 years of experience combined at the Atlanta-based agency.
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Lacy, an Alabama native who has been with NSPD for nine years, is competing in the Bench Press event on July 2. Accompanying Lacy to the games is 28-year veteran Eric Oliver who is training out of Chicago.
“Norfolk Southern police work closely with first responders to promote safety and strengthen the communities we serve in our 22-state network,” said Chris Stanley, NS Police Director. “We look forward to cheering on the athletes competing this year — including two of our own Norfolk Southern police officers — and remain thankful to the dedication of first responders around the world.”
The WPFG is expected to significantly boost Alabama’s tourism industry, with an estimated economic impact of $65 million. The event attracts athletes and spectators who will stay in local hotels, dine at restaurants, and shop in Birmingham, providing a much-needed surge to businesses in the area and potentially across the state.
Norfolk Southern’s presence at the Games also includes a locomotive simulator experience and a performance by its nationally recognized Lawmen Band, both featured in the Athlete’s Village. The Atlanta-based railroad is an official sponsor of this year’s Games.
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“Our police work closely with first responders to promote safety and strengthen the communities we serve,” said Chris Stanley, Director of the NS Police Department. “We’re proud to sponsor these Games — and proud to cheer on Jay and Eric.”
Founded in 1985, the World Police & Fire Games are held every two years and draw athletes from law enforcement, fire, and corrections departments around the world. For many participants, the Games are more than competition — they’re a celebration of shared service, camaraderie, and resilience.
For Lacy and Oliver, that spirit is personal. After a health setback in 2023, Lacy credits the NS team — along with family support — for helping him return stronger. For Oliver, now in his late 50s, stepping back onto the platform after years away is both a challenge and a tribute.
“They took a chance on me all those years ago,” Oliver said. “And now, it means something to get back out there — not just for me, but for Team NS.”
As the Games continue across Birmingham this week, the spotlight will shine on competitors from every corner of public safety — including two dedicated officers from the rails.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
