LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department

LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department                                               

SUMMARY  

📅 Sunday, April 11, 2027                                                                                                              

📍 15100 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL
⏰ Race starts at 9:00 AM (Check-in begins at 7:30 am, opening ceremony at 8:30 am)

🏃‍♂️ 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 

✨ 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) 

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.  

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. It’s 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  we’ll come together as a community to honor the fallen, support the survivors, and advocate for the mental health care and resources our heroes deserve. Let’s 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 Center’s 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. Emilio’s 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, Jim’s 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.

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

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

Join fellow runners on April 11, 2027 for the LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department. It's a fantastic 5K, 4.8K featuring a flat and fast course in Madeira Beach.