The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently announced the winners of the 13th annual Javier Arana, Jr. Top Trooper Competition. Corporal Kip Staton from Tyler won the title of top male, while Trooper Dani Basye from Amarillo took the top female spot, having previously won in 2022 and 2019. The competition concluded last Friday, allowing both winners to move on to represent Texas DPS at the upcoming National Top Trooper Competition, which DPS will host in Florence next month.

“These Troopers represent the best of Texas," said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. "They are highly skilled, deeply committed and driven by a sense of duty. We are proud to recognize their excellence and to have them represent Texas on the national stage in May. We also look forward to hosting the national competition here in Texas and welcoming Troopers from across the country to compete.”

Named in honor of fallen Trooper Javier Arana, Jr., who was part of the first competition in 2012, this event saw 138 participants engage in various challenges at DPS’ Tactical Training Facility in Florence. Competitors were tested on driving and firearms skills, physical conditioning, endurance, and job knowledge over nine events.

This year’s competition featured 113 male and a record-setting 25 female participants, the highest number of women in the event's history. The ages of competitors varied from 22 to 55 years old, showing a wide range of experience and commitment.

Alongside the National Top Trooper Competition, both winners will be recognized at the June Public Safety Commission Meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin.