Explorers Compete in National Winterfest
Ten Sheriff’s Explorers will compete in the Winterfest competition Feb. 9-11 in Gatlinburg.
Explorers competing are Malia Xayachack, Laeken Adams, Matthew Dougan, Peyton Hall, Oscar Flores, Gabereal King, Patrick Burns, Evan Myers, Sebastian Yount and Caleb Jones.
They will be among 3,000 Law Enforcement Explorers nationwide participating in the competition showing their skills, said Advisor Deputy Andy Pugh. Explorers groups are affiliated with the Boy Scouts and are open to students 15 to 21 who are interested in different careers.
“We’ll be competing in demonstrating the proper way to conduct felony traffic stops, DUI traffic stops, warrants service and domestic assault calls,” Pugh said.
In a scenario, the Explorers will respond as if the call is authentic.
One of the Explorers will take a written exam and another Explorer will compete in physical fitness.
Explorers trained with Pugh and Deputies Drew Farley and Grant Quintal, a former Explorer, for the competition for several months. This is the second year they’ve competed.
“They’re so focused,” Pugh said. “They’re worried about winning the competition.”
Explorers raised funds for the trip by selling savings cards and tickets to the Myers Creek Halloween event, parking cars and receiving donations from fraternities and other individuals.
