LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department
- Date
- April 11, 2027
- Distance
- LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department · Kids Registration Under 12 · Kids Run Club - Legends Never Die 5K
From the Organizer
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
⏰ 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)
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. 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.
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
To learn more about Madeira Beach Fire Department visit our Facebook page 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
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
From Endurance Grid's Founder
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
More running races in FL
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department?
- LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department is a running event held in Madeira Beach, FL. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
- When and where is the LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department?
- Sunday, April 11, 2027 in Madeira Beach, FL at 15100 Gulf Boulevard, Madeira Beach, FL. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department?
- Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.
LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department
Apr 11, 2027