Third of applicants fail WSP cadet physical test

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Patrol says it’s a significant challenge to find qualified cadet applicants who also can pass the physical fitness test. The patrol says about one-third of the applicants fail the test of sit-ups, push-ups and running — even a surprising number of people in their 20s. To help meet hiring goals, the patrol says it will hold special testing April 27 in Shelton and April 30 in Kennewick. The Legislature has authorized the patrol to hire 54 new trooper cadets in the next two years.