Alexandria, VA Hotel Hosts Technical Rescue Association of Virginia Challenge

First Responders Put Skills to the Test at Courtyard by Marriott Pentagon South

More than 150 first responders from Northern Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania spent 4 days at this hotel in Alexandria, Virginia, where they were given the task of completing two rescue scenarios each day (a total of 8 scenarios). Click here for high-resolution version·Marketwired

ALEXANDRIA, VA--(Marketwired - Jul 5, 2013) - Saving lives is not a responsibility to take lightly, and staying in top form is important so rescuers can respond quickly and efficiently. This past May, the Courtyard Alexandria Pentagon South, near Ronald Reagan Airport, had the honor of hosting the Technical Rescue Association of Virginia for their annual Rescue Challenge, helping area first responders master their life-saving skills.

More than 150 first responders from Northern Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania spent 4 days at this hotel in Alexandria, Virginia, where they were given the task of completing two rescue scenarios each day (a total of 8 scenarios). In an allotted amount of time, the men and women were given challenges such as high-angle rope rescue, confined-space rescue, trench rescue, vehicle/heavy machinery rescue and light and heavy structural collapse rescue. In addition to being a physical challenge, the event is also an opportunity for members of the community to meet on an annual basis and exchange ideas.

According to the Technical Rescue Association of Virginia, "Rescue Challenge is not a competition. Instead, it is an opportunity for highly trained teams to gain experience by participating in realistic scenarios that test their skills and knowledge."

The staff at the Courtyard by Marriott Pentagon South were able to observe some of the scenarios, which gave them further appreciation for the work of first responders. "We were in awe and proud to have witnessed the skills and expertise of these men and women," Angela Carrick, the Courtyard's Director of Sales and Marketing, said. "It was a joy to have this group stay with us and we were all very humbled after listening to some of their stories and learning of what they have encountered. Most of all, we were and are very grateful to these men and women, knowing that they could potentially save our lives one day."

To learn more about the Technical Rescue Association of Virginia, please visit their website http://rescuechallenge.org. For photographs of the Courtyard team at Rescue Challenge 2013, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pentagonsouth/photos_stream.

About the Courtyard Alexandria Pentagon South
Offering easy access to cosmopolitan Washington, D.C. and historic Alexandria, the Courtyard Alexandria Pentagon South is a smart choice for today's traveler, whether in town for business or leisure. This contemporary hotel's accommodations feature comfortable beds with 33-thread-count linens, fluffy pillows and down comforters; a work desk with ergonomic chair; complimentary Wi-Fi and a 32-inch TV. If work is what brings a traveler here, this Alexandria hotel is well-equipped with a business center and 2,200 square feet of event space, ideal for meetings and social functions. When it's time to unwind, head into D.C. to visit the White House, major museums and iconic monuments, spend a day shopping or dining near Old Town Alexandria or explore beautiful Mount Vernon. Or, head to this hotel's fitness center or indoor pool for a boost of energy. Courtyard Bistro offers breakfast and dinner. Getting around is easy with complimentary shuttle service to and from Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), the Pentagon City metro and the BRAC-133 DOD building.

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