15100 Gulf Boulevard, Madeira Beach FL
Sunday, April 12th, 2026
LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K
Hosted by: Madeira Beach Fire Department
Date: April 12, 2026
Location: 15100 Gulf Boulevard, Madeira Beach, FL
Race URL: Register Here
EVENT DETAILS
- Type: Beach Run/Walk
- Timing: Chip Timed Race
- Course: The event and the course path is along the shoreline and in the sand.
RACE TIME
- Start Time: 9:00 AM
- Check-In: 7:30 AM
- Stretch Clinic: 8:20 AM
- Opening Ceremony: 8:40 AM
REGISTRATION
- Kids: Under 12 years old are free.
- Adult Registration: Includes a raffle ticket for prizes such as hotel stays, fishing trips, and entertainment tickets.
- Early Registration: June 7, 2025 - February 13, 2026: $40 (Race T-shirt included)
- Regular Registration: February 14, 2026 - March 13, 2026: $45 (Race T-shirt included)
- Late Registration: March 14 - April 12: $45 (No T-shirt)
RACE T-SHIRTS
- Availability: Race T-shirts with Early & Regular Registration only.
- Pickup: At check-in: limited quantity available for purchase at the race.
ENTRY FEES
Entry fees are non-refundable, no exceptions.
AWARDS
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.
On April 12, 2026, 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.
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.
HOW IT STARTED
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. The race also honors Colonel James “Jim” Turner — a decorated Marine who took his own life after years of service. This race stands in remembrance of them and many others.
PARKING
- Paid Parking: Available at Archibald Beach.
- Free Parking: Madeira Beach City Centre Complex, 300 Municipal Drive, and along Rex Place.
- Note: Participants are not authorized to park in the lots of CVS, WinnDixie, and other private businesses.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Special Rate at DoubleTree by Hilton N. Redington Beach. Click for a 10% discount: Reserve Here
CONTACT
If you have questions, please contact Trish Eaton via email: teaton@madeirabeachfl.gov or call 727-391-3400.
LEARN MORE
To learn more about the “Why” for our Legends Never Die 5K, please view media links from ABC Action News and Fox 13:
FOLLOW US
To learn more about the Madeira Beach Fire Department visit our Facebook page: Visit Here
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