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19 June 2026
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The Johannesburg Trifecta: Conquering South Africa's tallest buildings
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What began as a conversation between a few dedicated firefighters soon evolved into one of the most demanding firefighter fitness challenges undertaken in Johannesburg. The journey started when Firefighter Vincent Naude proposed that a group of firefighters participate in the iconic Ponte City Stair Run Challenge while wearing full structural firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The challenge tested physical endurance, mental resilience and determination, proving that firefighters are capable of pushing far beyond ordinary limits.
Following the successful completion of the Ponte City challenge, Station Officer Tertius Engelbrecht suggested an even greater objective: "Why not conquer the three tallest buildings in South Africa?" From that moment, the concept of what would become known as The Johannesburg Trifecta was born.
The challenge consists of climbing South Africa's three most prominent high-rise buildings while wearing full firefighter PPE:
Completing all three climbs is an extraordinary achievement that requires exceptional cardiovascular fitness, strength, endurance, discipline and teamwork.
A select group of firefighters have successfully completed this remarkable challenge:
M. Mommsen, T. Engelbrecht, M. Gouws, V. Naude, J. Molefe, N. Gouws, C. Vermeulen, P. Hanyane, J. Makola, L. Ngoepe, E. Tshabalala, E. Xaba, R. Mokgatle and P. Zwane.
N Berry and J Moreba have already completed two out of the three and will receive their recognition after conquering all three building in due time. All the best to them.
These firefighters have earned the distinction of being among the very few to conquer The Johannesburg Trifecta while wearing full firefighting gear, demonstrating the highest standards of firefighter fitness and commitment.
However, the challenge does not end here.
The next objective is even more ambitious: to complete the entire Johannesburg Trifecta "on air", climbing both up and down the buildings while operating on SCBA. This undertaking will further test endurance, air management and operational readiness under realistic firefighting conditions.
The challenge has been issued and firefighters who believe they have what it takes to join this exclusive group are encouraged to participate.
For more information or to express interest, contact:
Morné Mommsen
Email: [email protected]
The Johannesburg Trifecta is more than a stair-climbing challenge—it is a testament to the professionalism, dedication and physical preparedness required of today's firefighters.
Respect is earned. Fitness is earned. The challenge has been conquered.
Source: Morné Mommsen
Following the successful completion of the Ponte City challenge, Station Officer Tertius Engelbrecht suggested an even greater objective: "Why not conquer the three tallest buildings in South Africa?" From that moment, the concept of what would become known as The Johannesburg Trifecta was born.
The challenge consists of climbing South Africa's three most prominent high-rise buildings while wearing full firefighter PPE:
- The Leonardo: 57 Floors
- Ponte City Apartments: 54 Floors
- Carlton Centre: 50 Floors
Completing all three climbs is an extraordinary achievement that requires exceptional cardiovascular fitness, strength, endurance, discipline and teamwork.
A select group of firefighters have successfully completed this remarkable challenge:
M. Mommsen, T. Engelbrecht, M. Gouws, V. Naude, J. Molefe, N. Gouws, C. Vermeulen, P. Hanyane, J. Makola, L. Ngoepe, E. Tshabalala, E. Xaba, R. Mokgatle and P. Zwane.
N Berry and J Moreba have already completed two out of the three and will receive their recognition after conquering all three building in due time. All the best to them.
These firefighters have earned the distinction of being among the very few to conquer The Johannesburg Trifecta while wearing full firefighting gear, demonstrating the highest standards of firefighter fitness and commitment.
However, the challenge does not end here.
The next objective is even more ambitious: to complete the entire Johannesburg Trifecta "on air", climbing both up and down the buildings while operating on SCBA. This undertaking will further test endurance, air management and operational readiness under realistic firefighting conditions.
The challenge has been issued and firefighters who believe they have what it takes to join this exclusive group are encouraged to participate.
For more information or to express interest, contact:
Morné Mommsen
Email: [email protected]
The Johannesburg Trifecta is more than a stair-climbing challenge—it is a testament to the professionalism, dedication and physical preparedness required of today's firefighters.
Respect is earned. Fitness is earned. The challenge has been conquered.
Source: Morné Mommsen
