Local Explorer Program wins numerous awards in regional competition

VENTURA COUNTY, Calif. -- Ventura Sheriff's Office Explorer Program receives awards from the Chandler Arizona Police Department's Tactical Explorer Competition on Sunday.

Explorers from Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Moorpark, Fillmore, Ojai and their Ventura Headquarters competed throughout the weekend in events that challenged them both physically and mentally.

There was a total of 62 other Explorer posts with more than 600 participants from throughout the western United States participating in the competition.

The Explorers showcased their physical fitness, leadership ability, technical decision making and teamwork.

Ventura County Sheriff Explorer teams received the following awards:

• 1st Place- Tactical Negotiations - Ojai Police Explorers 
• 1st Place- SWAT Sniper Challenge - Ojai Police Explorers 
• 2nd Place- Rapid Response - Camarillo Police Explorers 
• 2nd Place- Crisis Negotiations - Camarillo Police Explorers 
• 3rd Place- Tactical Emergency Medical Support - Thousand Oaks Police Explorers 
• 3rd Place- Explorer Bungee Pull - Fillmore Police Explorers 
• 3rd Place- Explorer Advisor Range - Fillmore Police Explorers 
• 3rd Place- 5K Run, Female - Headquarters Station Explorers 
• 3rd Place- 5K Advisor Run - Headquarters Station Explorers 
• 3rd Place- Advisor Obstacle Course - Headquarters Station Explorers 
• 4th Place- Tactical Obstacle Course, Female - Headquarters Station Explorers 
• 4th Place- Tactical Obstacle Course, Male - Headquarters Station Explorers 
• 5th Place- Ten Person Bear Cat Pull - Camarillo Station Explorers 

The program is funded through private donations and from public events where Explorer volunteer their time and the proceeds go to the program.

This year, Ventura County Explorers were able to participate in the competition due to significant donations from the Underwood Family Farms and Ventura County Deputy Sheriff's Association.

The program is offered for free to any resident of Ventura County between the ages of 14 and 21 years old. 

The goal of the program is to expose youth to the Sheriff’s Office and develop them into the leaders of the next generation.

Explorers participate in monthly meetings, work community events, have the opportunity to train with specialized units within the Sheriff’s Office and participate in patrol ride alongs. 

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