3rd Annual Randy Simmons 5K Challenge Run Continuing a Legacy of Service NR10447rf

September 10, 2010

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department, Metropolitan Division, is sponsoring the 3rd Annual 5K Challenge Run in honor of their fallen comrade, Officer Randal (“Randy”) D. Simmons.

On Feb. 7, 2008, SWAT Officer Simmons was killed as he entered a building to rescue people in imminent danger from a suicidal man who was threatening their lives. Simmons paid the ultimate sacrifice of his life while attempting to rescue those individuals.

As a dedicated SWAT officer and minister in the city of Carson, Simmons devoted his off-duty time to helping youth in troubled area’s throughout South Central Los Angeles. The Randal D. Simmons Outreach Foundation, a nonprofit organization, was established to continue Simmons’ legacy of working with those in need.

At 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 16, 2010, the Challenge Run will begin from the LAPD’s Elysian Park Police Academy and wind through the Elysian Park area, concluding back at the academy.  The run is open to law enforcement personnel and community members alike of all ages who would like to be part of a fun and challenging event that raises funds to further the work Simmons began as a pastor and LAPD officer.

Internet registration for this event will be open until 3 p.m. on Oct. 14.  After that, participants must register at the event location on the day of the race.  Entry fees are $25 if registration is completed by October 7 and $30 after that.  The fees for the “Fitness Challenge” immediately following the 5K run are $15 per person and $40 for a four-person team.

Each registered participant will receive a commemorative t-shirt.  Medals will be awarded in the 5K run to the top three male and top three females in each age group, and medals for the top three Teams in the Law Enforcement and Non-Law Enforcement categories.

Registration can be completed by going to www.active.com and typing in keyword “Randy Simmons.”

For additional information, please contact Officer Sergeant Al Labrada or Officer Alicia Alcantar at 213-972-2420. Calls may also be directed to the LAPD Media Relations Section at 213-486-5910.