Fundraising Effort in Riviera Maya Aids Local Firefighters and Provides Much Needed Emergency Training and Equipment

The MEXICO Report

Playa del Carmen, Mexico – On April 10, 2011, Playa del Carmen residents and visitors gathered together to take part in one of the region’s best-loved and most valuable fundraising events, the annual Three-Legged Bar Crawl to support the Bomberos of Quintana Roo. This year’s event raised 30,000 MXN for the Bomberos.

A record sixteen teams strapped themselves together for this fun-filled race, winding their way through the busy streets of this seaside city, encouraged by the cheers of onlookers and event sponsors. Organized by Brian Borjesson, President of the Bomberos de la Riviera Maya A.C. and Patronato de Protección Civil para la Riviera Maya A.C., the three-legged race is held every year to raise funds for regional firefighters. 

The Riviera Maya has experienced tremendous growth over the past two decades. The increase in population has brought a dramatic increase in traffic and a subsequent increase in potentially fatal accidents on the highways. In past years, several departments have been gifted with Jaws of Life, equipment which is invaluable in the effort to save lives.

The annual Bomberos’ Training Academy, initiated by Borjesson, provides essential instruction for local firemen, teaching them to effectively use these newly acquired tools. With support from guest instructors from the United States, this week-long training exercise is often the only organized instruction available to new firefighters.

The Bomberos’ Training Academy is now going into its 11th session, an effort funded by donations from residents, visitors and Riviera Maya business leaders like Rob Kinnon, owner of BuyPlaya Real Estate Advisors, a Playa del Carmen real estate brokerage.

“Until 1995, this city did not have a fire department. If your home or place of business caught on fire, the only chance of saving life and property was a neighborhood bucket brigade!” recalled Kinnon. “The three-legged race and similar fundraising efforts are essential to support the Bomberos and ensure the safety of our community. We have contributed to this event every year and we encourage our friends and fellow business owners to do the same.”

This year, the 6th annual Three-Legged Bar Crawl earned over 30,000 MXN, money that will go toward the purchase of updated emergency equipment, training and community services. To make a donation or for more information about the Bomberos, please contact Brian Borjesson at sicomono[at]prodigy.net.mx.

BuyPlaya Real Estate Advisors, based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, provides comprehensive real estate services and investment consultation for investors and vacation home buyers from the United States and Canada. A real estate professional for over a decade, Owner/Broker Rob Kinnon is dedicated to providing discrete and responsible Buyer Broker services, creating a seamless transition from Buyer to Homeowner.

For more information about Mexico Real Estate visit www.BuyPlaya.com.

Susie Albin-Najera

Susie Albin-Najera is the creator and editor of The Mexico Report, an award winning travel blog showcasing news, deals and resources for the modern traveler. Najera is a writer, author, travel blogger, marketing and public relations specialist and producer. Najera serves on the host committee for Maestro Cares, founded by singer Marc Anthony and producer Henry Cardenas; and on the advisory board for Corazon de Vida, providing aid to children in Mexico. She is also the creator of 'The Real Heroes of Mexico' showcasing community heroes in Mexico and producer of Latino Thought Makers. Najera has been recognized by the Mexican Consulate and Mexico Tourism Board for fostering positive relations between countries and her dedication to showcasing Mexico as a premiere destination. She can be reached at info@themexicoreport.com