Officers gear up for competition

  • JILL COLEY
    The Post and Courier
  • Posted: Saturday, June 14, 2008 12:01 a.m.
    UPDATED: Thursday, March 22, 2012 11:00 a.m.
  • Text size: A A A
Deputy 1st Class Mike Burrell (right) reacts Friday to Master Deputy David Willis as they train for next week's motorcycle competition at North Charleston Coliseum.
Ashley Garner /The Post and CourierDeputy 1st Class Mike Burrell (right) reacts Friday to Master Deputy David Willis as they train for next week's motorcycle competition at North Charleston Coliseum.

Metal footboards ground on pavement as motorcycle officers tipped their 850-pound machines sharply left and right, handlebars locked as far as they will go. Trained to look before turning, necks craned an instant before bikes followed.

On Friday, motorcycle officers from area law enforcement agencies and motorcycle paramedics rode through orange cones outside the North Charleston Coliseum as part of their monthly training. Riders also warmed up for the third annual Palmetto Police Motorcycle Skills Competition on June 18-21.

The motorcycle rodeo attracts officers from across the Southeast. Seventy-five officers from about 30 agencies are confirmed so far to compete.

"It's a competition, but it makes you a better driver," said Charleston County sheriff's Sgt. Rob Grimsley.

This year, the event will benefit the Fraternal Order of Police's Distressed Officers Fund. With five deaths last year, the fund is depleted, Grimsley said.

Proceeds will come from registration fees, donations and T-shirt sales. The event is free. Last year, the rodeo raised $8,000 for Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy.

This year, competitors will complete two timed runs on five different courses each round. Ten courses will be set up. Events also include a slow ride to see how slowly officers can ride in a confined space, testing clutch and throttle control.

In the partner ride, two tethered competitors bound by an 18-inch tether that will separate under the slightest pressure will showcase their skill, Grimsley said.

Lt. Dwayne Simmons is one of three Charleston County EMS motorcycle paramedics. The specialized unit helps with outdoor events and with large crowds, Simmons said.

"We carry everything to take care of the patient," Simmons said.

In addition to paramedic training, motorcycle paramedics go through the same education as officers, he said.

Assistant Sheriff Andrene Coury-Smith said the Charleston County sheriff's motorcycle squad came up with the rodeo idea to showcase officers' talent, raise money for a good cause and spend time with fellow motorcycle officers. "It's a great idea to show the public what these guys do on a motorcycle," she said.