LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department
- Date Sun 11th April 2027
- Time 9:00AM EDT
- Location Madeira Beach, Florida
- Price Free - $44.00
- Races 3 races
- Distances 5km
Event summary
Join us for the exhilarating LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K on Sunday, April 11, 2027, in the beautiful coastal community of Madeira Beach, Pinellas. This chip-timed beach run/walk kicks off at 9:00 AM, with check-in starting at 7:30 AM and an inspiring opening ceremony at 8:30 AM. Participants of all ages are invited to enjoy the scenic shoreline while raising awareness for mental health issues affecting our first responders, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.
The event features a fun-filled day with awards for the top three male and female finishers, including the title of Fastest Firefighter in Full Gear. Kids 12 and under can join the fun for free! Everyone will have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes like hotel stays and fishing trips. With SWAG bags for the first 500 registrants and medals for the first 500 finishers, this race is more than just a competition—it's a powerful movement to honor the lives lost and support those still fighting. Come be a part of this meaningful event and help us make a difference in our community!
The event features a fun-filled day with awards for the top three male and female finishers, including the title of Fastest Firefighter in Full Gear. Kids 12 and under can join the fun for free! Everyone will have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes like hotel stays and fishing trips. With SWAG bags for the first 500 registrants and medals for the first 500 finishers, this race is more than just a competition—it's a powerful movement to honor the lives lost and support those still fighting. Come be a part of this meaningful event and help us make a difference in our community!
Organiser's Description
LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K HOSTED BY MADEIRA BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT
BEACH RUN/WALK . CHIP TIMED RACE
SUMMARY
Sunday, April 11, 2027
15100 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL
alarm clock Race starts at 9:00 AM (Check-in begins at 7:30 am, opening ceremony at 8:30 am)
male sign Chip-timed beach run/walk along the shoreline
Kids 12 & under run FREE
Raffle entry included (hotel stays, fishing trips & more!)
Awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd male & female finishers
Award: Fastest Firefighter in Full Gear
sparkles Mental health resources on-site
Stretch & adjustment clinics
Hydration station
Food vendors + fitness & more for a great time
The event and the course path is along the shoreline and in the sand.
SWAG BAGS to the first 500 at check-in
MEDALS to the first 500 crossing the finish line (bibs must be on at the time of crossing)
FULL DETAILS
SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2027
RACE TIME
9:00 AM
CHECK-IN - 7:30 AM
STRETCH CLINIC - 8:20 AM
OPENING CEREMONY - 8:40 AM
REGISTRATION
KIDS UNDER 12 YRS OLD ARE FREE
ADULT REGISTRATION INCLUDES A RAFFLE TICKET FOR OPPORTUNITY TO WIN PRIZES SUCH AS A HOTEL STAY, FISHING TRIP, ENTERTAINMENT TICKETS AND MORE.
EARLY REGISTRATION (RACE T-SHIRT INCLUDED)
SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 - FEBRUARY 14, 2027
$40
REGULAR REGISTRATION (RACE T-SHIRT INCLUDED)
FEBRUARY 15, 2027 - MARCH 11, 2027
$45
LATE REGISTRATION (NO T-SHIRT)
MARCH 12TH, 2027 - APRIL 11, 2027
$45
RACE T-SHIRTS WITH EARLY & REGULAR REGISTRATION ONLY & PICK UP AT CHECK IN; LIMITED QUANTITY AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE RACE.
ENTRY FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, NO EXCEPTIONS.
RACE AWARDS - 1ST, 2ND AND 3RD OVERALL - MALE & FEMALE
WHY WE RUN
Since 2021, the Madeira Beach Fire Department has proudly hosted the Legends Never Die 5K an event dedicated to shining a light on the invisible wounds carried by our first responders, veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families.
This race is more than just a run. Its a movement to raise awareness about mental health, PTSD, and suicide among those who serve and protect us. Every step we take is a tribute to the lives lost, a show of strength for those still fighting, and a reminder that no one has to battle alone.
We all have a role to play by listening, reaching out, and breaking the silence. Talking openly about mental health reduces stigma, builds awareness, and can save lives.
On April 11, 2027 well come together as a community to honor the fallen, support the survivors, and advocate for the mental health care and resources our heroes deserve. Lets stand together for healing, for hope, and for change.
INVISIBLE WOUNDS ARE THE HARDEST TO HEAL
WHO THIS RACE HELPS
Proceeds from this event directly benefit The Franciscan Center's First Responders Post Trauma Training Program, which provides a safe, confidential space for first responders to process critical incidents and the cumulative stress of a lifetime of service. The Centers programs are life-changing for the Tampa Bay community and beyond.
HOW IT STARTED HONORING EMILIO AND JIM
In 2019, a firefighter at the Madeira Beach Fire Department lost a close friend Emilio Rivera to suicide. Emilios story is one of bravery, service, and heartbreak.
Emilio joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2009, serving in the 5th Battalion 11th Marines where he specialized in HIMARS. During his four years of service, his unit broke two military records while overseas. After returning home to Pasco County, FL, Emilio continued his commitment to service by becoming a firefighter. He graduated from the Florida State Fire College as Top Dog, recognized for his physical strength and dedication. Emilio went on to serve five years with Marion County Fire Rescue as a Firefighter/EMT.
He was just 29 years old when he died by suicide, leaving behind a three-year-old son and a legacy that continues to inspire this race.
Another life that shapes this event is that of Colonel James Jim Turner a decorated Marine and communications leader who served both on the battlefield and at the highest levels of U.S. Military command. After more than 20 years of service, Jim retired but like so many others, the invisible scars remained.
On December 10, 2018, Jim drove to the Bay Pines VA complex in St. Petersburg, FL. Dressed in his uniform, adorned with medals, he sat atop his military records and took his own life. Since our very first race, Jims wife Jenn and daughter Kaylee have been at the heart of our event standing as fierce advocates for suicide prevention and mental health support for veterans.
LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K IS IN HONOR OF FIREFIGHTER EMILIO RIVERA AND MARINE COL. JIM TURNER AND MANY OTHERS.
BY PARTICIPATING IN THE LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K, YOU ARE PART OF A MISSION TO TURN TRAGEDY INTO PURPOSE, SILENCE INTO SUPPORT, AND GRIEF INTO LASTING CHANGE.
RUN WITH US. WALK WITH US. STAND WITH US.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE "WHY" FOR OUR LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K PLEASE VIEW THE MEDIA LINKS
Channel 8 News
https://www.wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/legends-never-die-5k-in-madeira-beach-raises-money-for-first-responder-military-mental-health/
ABC ACTION NEWS https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/hundreds-turnout-to-run-for-first-responders-veterans-and-law-enforcement-officers?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR30QqthHDb4hb6EObk_jW0LlsprxFqyfsu9TZv0FYt-posSN8w3sanMOUU_aem_ARJmj6qEAEQhVwV5bpR70qF-fps9jSKNkL0QLMD2UHo1IXbkXcPycdj3OQt380wowEEJSfqGlH6Y6SGJGFD5yJi-
FOX 13 https://www.fox13news.com/news/legends-never-die-5k-returns-to-madeira-beach.amp?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3RRelG48FqRul7zO4BGfFnYBfnwEXKdezwD5WUC26Xd57mFOVpQ43Gc1M_aem_ARIVn2acQR2zYh1X9APEjN4UgenrI5gmX0OLcDvogvlSBjZaJHoKasbvqLn5xLmbw_hvp-n0OYbvxzV7UtxLtHcz
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MADEIRA BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MADEIRABEACHFD [https://www.facebook.com/MadeiraBeachFD]
PARKING
PAID PARKING @ ARCHIBALD BEACH
FREE PARKING - MADEIRA BEACH CITY CENTRE COMPLEX, 300 MUNICIPAL DRIVE OR ALONG REX PLACE IN FRONT OF SPORTS COMPLEX - BOTH PROPERTIES ARE IN WALKING DISTANCE TO ARCHIBALD BEACH
PARTICIPANTS ARE NOT AUTHORIZED TO PARK IN THE LOTS OF CVS, ALDI AND OTHER PRIVATE BUSINESSES. YOU MAY FACE PARKING VIOLATIONS AND/OR BE TOWED.
NEED HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS? SPECIAL RATE AT DOUBLETREE BY HILTON N. REDINGTON BEACH
Click on the link for a 10% discount! https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=NORNHDT&corporateCode=0003252998
QUESTIONS? CLICK BUTTON BELOW or contact Trish Eaton via email: teaton@madeirabeachfl.gov or call 727-391-3400
BEACH RUN/WALK . CHIP TIMED RACE
SUMMARY
Sunday, April 11, 2027
15100 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL
alarm clock Race starts at 9:00 AM (Check-in begins at 7:30 am, opening ceremony at 8:30 am)
male sign Chip-timed beach run/walk along the shoreline
Kids 12 & under run FREE
Raffle entry included (hotel stays, fishing trips & more!)
Awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd male & female finishers
Award: Fastest Firefighter in Full Gear
sparkles Mental health resources on-site
Stretch & adjustment clinics
Hydration station
Food vendors + fitness & more for a great time
The event and the course path is along the shoreline and in the sand.
SWAG BAGS to the first 500 at check-in
MEDALS to the first 500 crossing the finish line (bibs must be on at the time of crossing)
FULL DETAILS
SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2027
RACE TIME
9:00 AM
CHECK-IN - 7:30 AM
STRETCH CLINIC - 8:20 AM
OPENING CEREMONY - 8:40 AM
REGISTRATION
KIDS UNDER 12 YRS OLD ARE FREE
ADULT REGISTRATION INCLUDES A RAFFLE TICKET FOR OPPORTUNITY TO WIN PRIZES SUCH AS A HOTEL STAY, FISHING TRIP, ENTERTAINMENT TICKETS AND MORE.
EARLY REGISTRATION (RACE T-SHIRT INCLUDED)
SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 - FEBRUARY 14, 2027
$40
REGULAR REGISTRATION (RACE T-SHIRT INCLUDED)
FEBRUARY 15, 2027 - MARCH 11, 2027
$45
LATE REGISTRATION (NO T-SHIRT)
MARCH 12TH, 2027 - APRIL 11, 2027
$45
RACE T-SHIRTS WITH EARLY & REGULAR REGISTRATION ONLY & PICK UP AT CHECK IN; LIMITED QUANTITY AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE RACE.
ENTRY FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, NO EXCEPTIONS.
RACE AWARDS - 1ST, 2ND AND 3RD OVERALL - MALE & FEMALE
WHY WE RUN
Since 2021, the Madeira Beach Fire Department has proudly hosted the Legends Never Die 5K an event dedicated to shining a light on the invisible wounds carried by our first responders, veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families.
This race is more than just a run. Its a movement to raise awareness about mental health, PTSD, and suicide among those who serve and protect us. Every step we take is a tribute to the lives lost, a show of strength for those still fighting, and a reminder that no one has to battle alone.
We all have a role to play by listening, reaching out, and breaking the silence. Talking openly about mental health reduces stigma, builds awareness, and can save lives.
On April 11, 2027 well come together as a community to honor the fallen, support the survivors, and advocate for the mental health care and resources our heroes deserve. Lets stand together for healing, for hope, and for change.
INVISIBLE WOUNDS ARE THE HARDEST TO HEAL
WHO THIS RACE HELPS
Proceeds from this event directly benefit The Franciscan Center's First Responders Post Trauma Training Program, which provides a safe, confidential space for first responders to process critical incidents and the cumulative stress of a lifetime of service. The Centers programs are life-changing for the Tampa Bay community and beyond.
HOW IT STARTED HONORING EMILIO AND JIM
In 2019, a firefighter at the Madeira Beach Fire Department lost a close friend Emilio Rivera to suicide. Emilios story is one of bravery, service, and heartbreak.
Emilio joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2009, serving in the 5th Battalion 11th Marines where he specialized in HIMARS. During his four years of service, his unit broke two military records while overseas. After returning home to Pasco County, FL, Emilio continued his commitment to service by becoming a firefighter. He graduated from the Florida State Fire College as Top Dog, recognized for his physical strength and dedication. Emilio went on to serve five years with Marion County Fire Rescue as a Firefighter/EMT.
He was just 29 years old when he died by suicide, leaving behind a three-year-old son and a legacy that continues to inspire this race.
Another life that shapes this event is that of Colonel James Jim Turner a decorated Marine and communications leader who served both on the battlefield and at the highest levels of U.S. Military command. After more than 20 years of service, Jim retired but like so many others, the invisible scars remained.
On December 10, 2018, Jim drove to the Bay Pines VA complex in St. Petersburg, FL. Dressed in his uniform, adorned with medals, he sat atop his military records and took his own life. Since our very first race, Jims wife Jenn and daughter Kaylee have been at the heart of our event standing as fierce advocates for suicide prevention and mental health support for veterans.
LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K IS IN HONOR OF FIREFIGHTER EMILIO RIVERA AND MARINE COL. JIM TURNER AND MANY OTHERS.
BY PARTICIPATING IN THE LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K, YOU ARE PART OF A MISSION TO TURN TRAGEDY INTO PURPOSE, SILENCE INTO SUPPORT, AND GRIEF INTO LASTING CHANGE.
RUN WITH US. WALK WITH US. STAND WITH US.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE "WHY" FOR OUR LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K PLEASE VIEW THE MEDIA LINKS
Channel 8 News
https://www.wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/legends-never-die-5k-in-madeira-beach-raises-money-for-first-responder-military-mental-health/
ABC ACTION NEWS https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/hundreds-turnout-to-run-for-first-responders-veterans-and-law-enforcement-officers?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR30QqthHDb4hb6EObk_jW0LlsprxFqyfsu9TZv0FYt-posSN8w3sanMOUU_aem_ARJmj6qEAEQhVwV5bpR70qF-fps9jSKNkL0QLMD2UHo1IXbkXcPycdj3OQt380wowEEJSfqGlH6Y6SGJGFD5yJi-
FOX 13 https://www.fox13news.com/news/legends-never-die-5k-returns-to-madeira-beach.amp?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3RRelG48FqRul7zO4BGfFnYBfnwEXKdezwD5WUC26Xd57mFOVpQ43Gc1M_aem_ARIVn2acQR2zYh1X9APEjN4UgenrI5gmX0OLcDvogvlSBjZaJHoKasbvqLn5xLmbw_hvp-n0OYbvxzV7UtxLtHcz
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MADEIRA BEACH FIRE DEPARTMENT VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MADEIRABEACHFD [https://www.facebook.com/MadeiraBeachFD]
PARKING
PAID PARKING @ ARCHIBALD BEACH
FREE PARKING - MADEIRA BEACH CITY CENTRE COMPLEX, 300 MUNICIPAL DRIVE OR ALONG REX PLACE IN FRONT OF SPORTS COMPLEX - BOTH PROPERTIES ARE IN WALKING DISTANCE TO ARCHIBALD BEACH
PARTICIPANTS ARE NOT AUTHORIZED TO PARK IN THE LOTS OF CVS, ALDI AND OTHER PRIVATE BUSINESSES. YOU MAY FACE PARKING VIOLATIONS AND/OR BE TOWED.
NEED HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS? SPECIAL RATE AT DOUBLETREE BY HILTON N. REDINGTON BEACH
Click on the link for a 10% discount! https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=NORNHDT&corporateCode=0003252998
QUESTIONS? CLICK BUTTON BELOW or contact Trish Eaton via email: teaton@madeirabeachfl.gov or call 727-391-3400
Races
-
LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department
Incl. $4.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Sun 11th April 2027 (9:00AM EDT)
$44.00
OPENS 01 SEPIn Person Timed Race Run or Walk - Beach Event - All Abilities, All Ages! The course will be in the sand/along the shoreline Families Welcome - kids under 12 are free. Strollers are permitted. 1st, 2nd, 3rd Overall M - F Fastest Firefighter in Full Gear Award Raffle prizes, refreshments, pre-run stretch station, and more! -
Kids Registration Under 12
Sun 11th April 2027 (9:00AM EDT)
Free
OPENS 01 SEPOption to be timed and finisher medal provided -
Kids Run Club - Legends Never Die 5K
Incl. $2.25 Fee
Sun 11th April 2027 (9:00AM EDT)
$12.25
OPENS 01 SEPFor Gulf Beaches Elementary Run Club Students and Madeira Beach Fundamental Run Club Students under 14 yr old
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15100 Gulf Boulevard, Madeira Beach, 33708, FL, United States
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LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department
