First Responders Relay
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First Responders Relay : California Police Athletic Federation
The First Responders Relay is a running relay event for first responder personnel from the United States and internationally, hosted by the California Police Athletic Federation, a 501c(3) nonprofit. The 2026 event is scheduled for Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Ventura Beach, with the start and finish located at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach.
The relay is a six-person team race covering a total of 30 miles with stages that range from about 4.2 miles to 6 miles and six exchange points. Runners begin on the Promenade, follow the bike lane to the Pacific Coast Highway, continue along PCH and the coastal bike trail to Rincon Point, and then return to the Crowne Plaza by the same route. Runners must carry the baton and wear a bib number on the front.
Eligibility is limited to publicly employed first responders and qualified retirees in roles such as peace officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, customs and correctional officers. Support personnel may include 9-1-1 dispatchers, detention officers, crime scene investigators, lifeguards, reserve officers, and volunteer firefighters; medical staff and other frontline personnel may be included pending approval.
Teams are composed of six runners with alternates allowed for no-shows; a runner who begins a stage must finish that stage or the team becomes unofficial. Entry fee and registration procedures are managed by the organizer, registration opens June 1 and entries are limited. An award ceremony is held after the race with category awards and a perpetual trophy for the overall fastest team. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
