The Manchester Township Police Department is proud to announce that the second annual Elite Law Enforcement Fitness Challenge, held on Wednesday, June 8, successfully raised money for charity while offering an intensive physical competition for local police officers.

This team-based competition, held at Harry Wright Lake in Whiting, raised nearly $6,000.00, which will benefit the Ocean of Love Charity and the not for profit Manchester Township Police Foundation Inc. The officers were proud to work together and compete in grueling physical exercises, all for worthy causes.

“To be successful in this Elite Fitness Challenge, you must be in excellent physical condition. This is one of the most intense competitions that only highly-trained athletes can successfully complete,” said Chief Lisa Parker. “Police Officers need to commit to maintaining a physical standard for their entire career, as the nature of their job demands it. Their departments should be proud of their accomplishment and sincere dedication to fitness.”

Stafford Township Police Team Blue earned the title of Fittest Police Department, beating out 17 other four-person teams for the honor. In second place was Toms River Township Police Team # 1, followed by Toms River Township Police Team # 2 in third. The exercises included team vehicle pull, team tire flip, fence climbs, rope climbs, barrel roll, team member carry, farmers carry, clean and press, individual tire flip, pole flip/carry, sandbag carry, firehose drag, 200 yard swim, and a five mile trail run.

Organizers, Detective David Fusaro and Patrolman Charles Gatnarek of the Manchester Township Police Department are appreciative of everyone who participated and are looking forward to continuing this event and supporting various charities. The Manchester Township Police would like to extend a special thank you to our Gold Sponsors: Termini Nutrition Center, Forked River and Bayville; Barnabas Health Medical Group, West Orange; Cardiology Consultants of Toms River; Thompson Chiropractic, Toms River; A Simply Greener Side, Toms River, Crossfit Arx, Toms River; and Kettlebell Kitchen, New York and New Jersey.