To mark the completion of an unprecedented 75 weeks since the beginning of their training at the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Academy, cadets are preparing to take part in a time-honored predawn run on Wednesday, July 14. Training for CHP cadets typically lasts 29 weeks; however, COVID-19 pandemic safety measures stretched this cadet class training to 75 weeks.

This will be the first cadet run since October 2019. The nearly 5-mile run, from the CHP Academy to the California Peace Officers’ Memorial near the State Capitol, is a way for the cadets to recognize the ultimate sacrifice of our law enforcement heroes.

The California Peace Officers’ Memorial near the Capitol honors more than 1,600 brave women and men who have sacrificed their lives serving and protecting California and the public. The monument also emphasizes to the soon-to-be officers the dangers of the job upon which they are about to embark.

While at the monument, cadets and officers will observe a moment of silence to honor the fallen heroes.

A total of 119 cadets and other CHP personnel are involved. The run will begin at the CHP Academy, 3500 Reed Ave., West Sacramento, at 5:15 a.m.

Cadets will run in formation and sing cadence on Reed Avenue, across the Tower Bridge, along Capitol Mall, and end at the Peace Officers’ Memorial on 10th Street and Capitol Mall.