Domestic Violence Investigator for Mansfield Police Department Matt Loughman competed in the Ohio Police and Fire Games Thursday, June 12. He participated in the Pump and Run Competition and received a gold medal for his performance in his age bracket (30-39).
The annual Ohio Police and Fire Games involves many police departments from Ohio. This year’s five-day event began on June 8 and is being held in Clermont County, just outside of Cinncinnati. Loughman competed against 10 other enforcement officers and was the oldest in his age bracket.
In the Pump and Run Competition, the officers bench press and run a 5K. For every bodyweight press, 30 seconds is subtracted from their 5K time. Loughman completed 19 reps, therefore docking 9 minutes and 30 seconds from his final time. His final time was 13:58.
There are over 35 competitions in the Ohio Police and Fire Games, including archery, golf, bowling, swimming and biking.
Loughman, who lives with his family in northern Richland County, is 39-years-old and has three children under the age of 15. He said he has enjoyed keeping fit since attending high school, and has been in the force since he was 20.
“Being in the force has really opened my eyes to things. It’s been a great experience and I wouldn’t change anything I’ve ever done,” said Loughman.
He said over the years he has suffered injuries and gained weight as an indirect result. However, he said he has been blessed to acquire gym equipment in his basement. Three years ago he started working out in his basement and he lost 90 pounds since that then, 60 of which were lost within the last year. The Police and Fire Games is motivation for him to stay in shape.
“I kind of use the police games as motivation, to keep me working out, to keep me going. I’m a very competitive person, so I guess the games motivate me to keep me healthy … Plus, now I have energy for my kids with everything they do,” shared Loughman.
The Ohio Police and Fire Games are held every second week of June and is open to all active and retired law enforcement officers in Ohio. Loughman said he was proud to represent the Mansfield Police Department.
“I’m very proud of being a Mansfield police officer and any time I can bring a positive light to the police department, it’s a good thing,” said Loughman.
For more information on the Ohio Police and Fire Games, visit their website.
“I kind of use the police games as motivation, to keep me working out, to keep me going. I’m a very competitive person, so I guess the games motivate me to keep me healthy,” said Matt Loughman.
