'Maltz Challenge' cross-fit challenge honors fallen military heroes

It is an annual worldwide cross-fit event held in memory of a U.S. airman killed in action in Afghanistan.

This year's "Maltz Challenge" Friday at Ford Field, honored a Michigan Marine sergeant who died in combat, leaving behind a wife and two children.

FOX 2 was invited to take part in the 2016 Detroit Maltz Cross fit Challenge, a free event raising awareness for some of our country's bravest.

"This is all about honoring our fallen warriors, the heroes that we have in our local communities," said
David Grant, Detroit Drug Enforcement Administration.

Local law enforcement and military members also took part in the rigorous eight-part workout including a 400 meter run, 50 pull-ups, 100 pushups and sit-ups, and the firemen carry.

"Over the last 10 years or so we had a loss to a member of our family," said Grant. "Michael Maltz, staff sergeant pararescue with the Air Force."

The challenge also included a ceremony in remembrance of Maltz and in honor of our fallen.

This year a special tribute was paid to Staff Sgt. Nicholas Sprovtsoff, a devoted Marine from Davison killed in 2011 while serving in Afghanistan, leaving behind his wife Tasha and children Laney and Tank.

Thoughts of loyalty and sacrifice are on the minds of participants in the cross fit challenge making it for another successful year of remembrance and fun.

"It's nice to know that four and half years later that people still remember and still care," said Tasha Sprovtsoff.

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