The Baker to Vegas Challenge Cup relay is back for another year, bringing together emergency services personnel from across the globe to compete in the 120mile (approx. 193km) race from Baker, California to Las Vegas, Nevada.
This year, 65 Queensland Police Service (QPS) personnel are heading to the United States to take part in the event which takes place on April 5 and 6, captained by Detective Senior Constable Nicole Doyle who is participating for her fourth time.
The QPS first began participating in Baker to Vegas in 2001 as the first Australian team to enter the event.
This year will see the organisation compete for its ninth time as the only Australian law enforcement team.
Among those making the trip abroad to represent QPS is Inspector David Campbell who will be participating in the international event for the sixth time.
"This year will be the sixth time I've run the event, the most of any QPS runner and I'm very proud of that," Inspector Campbell said.
"The event provides us the opportunity to meet and compete with law enforcement personnel from all over the globe while we also honour our fallen colleagues."
The relay first commenced in 1985 and is the largest event of its kind in the world, welcoming teams from the United States, Europe, South America, Canada and Australia.
Teams are grouped into 20 people, with the event's primary focus to promote comradery, physical fitness and mental wellbeing for those working within the law enforcement field.
Reflecting on the importance of events such as Baker to Vegas, Inspector Campbell believes it provides an incredible opportunity to expand on learnings within the field, but also unique perspectives of what is a challenging role.
"Apart from making new friends, it provides a perfect opportunity to gain ideas and perspectives from other agencies, to discuss and learn what are their challenges and priorities are, in the communities they serve," Inspector Campbell said.
"Some of the connections I've made at this event have led to strategies and learnings that I've brought home to use effectively in my QPS roles.
"There are so many benefits to events such as Baker to Vegas and engaging with international members of law enforcement, it is my hope that the QPS keeps sending teams to this event for a long time in the future."
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