Santa Maria Police Explorer Post 115 placed third in the Obstacle Course Challenge at the third annual North Los Angeles County Explorer Competition. The event was held recently at the Los Angeles County Sheriff Training Center in Castaic.

Pioneer Valley student Jaime Belmontes was among the competitors.

The event held April 5 and 6 included 25 teams and 213 Explorers from 19 agencies from Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange and El Dorado counties, Arizona and Nevada.

The competition is designed to test, encourage and develop the explorers by promoting teamwork, leadership, knowledge, officer safety, responsibility and motivation.

Events included Mud Run, Downed Officer Rescue, High Risk Vehicle Stop, Family Disturbance, Hogan’s Alley, Obstacle Course, Bearcat Vehicle Pull, Rock Wall Climb, 3-mile Run, Hostage Rescue Team, Tug O’War, Bus Assault and Explorer Fitness Challenge.

The SMPD Explorer Program is designed for youths between the ages of 14 and 20 who have expressed an interest in the law enforcement field.

Anyone interested in becoming an SMPD Explorer can contact Sgt. Woody Vega at 928-3781, ext. 361.

Article contributed by SM Times Staff 4/14/14; Photo contributed