The old veteran and the new guy have proved they have what it takes. K-9s Jax and Kuno - under the direction of their handlers, officers Todd Thompson and Jeremy McElroy - showed off their winning skills in the Fourth Annual Colorado Police K-9 Association's K-9 Challenge.

The competition, which took place in the Pepsi Center, featured more than 30 K-9s from throughout the state. Jax, with Thompson, placed third in narcotics detection and fourth in suspect apprehension. Kuno, with McElroy, placed third in area searches.

"The challenge was a great opportunity for the public to see what Jax and Kuno can do," said Thompson.

The event was especially meaningful because it was the first time Kuno had competed, and it could mark the last time for Jax, who may retire next year. Jax has been a K-9 officer with CRPD since March 2002, and Kuno was sworn in this past February, and passed his K-9 training in spring. McElroy said the challenge also was a good learning experience for him.

"It was good for me to watch the other handlers and their dogs to see how they work together," McElroy said. "I'm already looking forward to next year's challenge."

Angela Copeland is community relations manager for the Town of Castle Rock.