St Pete Running Company's UnOfficial Turkey Trot

LEGENDS NEVER DIE 5K Hosted by Madeira Beach Fire Department

Beach Run/Walk . Chip Timed Race

The event and the course path is along the shoreline and in the sand.

SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2026

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)

June 7, 2025 - February 13, 2026

$40

Regular Registration (Race T-shirt Included)

February 14, 2026 - March 13, 2026

$45

Late Registration (NO T-Shirt)

March 14th - April 12th

$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 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. 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 from ABC Action News and Fox 13.

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

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, WinnDixie 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:

Chosen as one of the best "Destination Triathlons" and where the "World's Best Come to Race"! The 43rd St. Anthony's Triathlon will take place through the scenic downtown waterfront swim course, a flat and fast bike course followed by the run course known to be a favorite of several pro triathletes. Three races offered from beginners in the Meek & Mighty to the Sprint and Olympic distance events.

St. Anthony's Triathlon Olympic Distance Swim: 1.5K, Bike: 40K, Run: 10K

St. Anthony’s Sprint Triathlon Swim: 750m, Bike: 18K, Run: 5K

Meek and Mighty (Pool Swim, Bike, Run)

Age 11+: Swim: 200yds, Bike: 5.4mi, Run: 1mi

Age 7-10: Swim: 100yds, Bike: 3.6mi, Run: 1/2 mi

Registration Policy: NO REFUNDS. NO EXCEPTIONS! Race management reserves the right to cancel or modify the event due to unfavorable conditions. Race management also reserves the right to accept or reject all entry forms.

THERE IS NO RACE DAY PACKET PICKUP FOR THE SPRINT AND OLYMPIC DISTANCES.

Registration For the Sprint and Olympic Distances Closes: Saturday 4/25/2026 3:30pm Eastern

Olympic distance OPEN age group (formerly ELITE AMATEUR) Competition This is a category for ELITE athletes only - you don't need to send in a time to race the Olympic as an age grouper: Select Olympic Triathlon - Open (form. Elite Amateur). You will be required to provide a finish time and proof of your results within the last year. Male athletes must provide proof of completing an International triathlon distance event in 2025 in a time of 2:15:00 or better. Female athletes must provide proof of completing an International triathlon distance event in 2025 in a time of 2:30:00 or better. THIS IS ONLY FOR THIS CATEGORY.

VIP Entry ($265): VIP entries help to support our non-profit organizations that assist by volunteering their time event week. This entry is not tax-deductible and is considered a general individual entry but may gain you access to the VIP wave. The VIP entry also includes a parking pass, a wristband to the hospitality tent post race, and a 12 minute post race massage.

Relays: Each team member must register themselves. There are no relay team changes after 4/20/26.

Professional Athletes: Professional athletes please contact Patrick.McGee@baycare.org.

4TH ANNUAL SGT. ANTHONY MUHLSTADT DEFENDER RUCK

DEADLINE FOR GUARANTEED EVENT SHIRT IS MAY 20th.

AFTER MAY 20th, T-SHIRTS WILL BE BASED ON AVAILABILITY. THANK YOU

Proceeds to benefit local organizations committed to battling military suicide

Ruck. Remember. Defend.

Anthony’s Defender Run/Ruck or Walk is more than a physical challenge—it is a mission of purpose, remembrance, and ACTION.

We ruck to honor Sgt. Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt, USMC, and every service member who has silently carried the weight of stress, trauma, and isolation while serving our country. Anthony’s life, service, and loss remind us that strength does not mean suffering alone—and that suicide prevention begins with connection, education, and courage.

This event exists because suicide is claiming the lives of our active-duty military and veterans at an alarming rate, and too often the warning signs are missed. Anthony’s Defender Ruck was created to bring those conversations out of the shadows and into the open—where real change happens.

When you participate, you are doing more than showing up:

You are standing in defense of life

You are raising awareness for suicide prevention

You are funding critical training and resources that equip people to recognize the signs, have hard conversations, and intervene when it matters most

You are honoring the fallen and supporting the living

Whether you ruck in person, participate virtually or sponsor, you become part of a community that refuses to stay silent and chooses to lead with action.

We ruck to remember

We ruck to protect those still serving.

We ruck so others know they are never alone.

Thank you for stepping up, shouldering the weight, and defending hope.

This year we’ve added a couple fun new options:

Create-a-Team (ruck, run, or walk together!)

Referral rewards + new swag rewards when you invite friends to register

Refer 5 people using your unique link and receive up to a $20.00 refund

Refer 10 people using your unique link and choose a Sgt. Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt Foundation t-shirt or a foundation tumbler

The Defender 5K and Ruck Walk is also a celebration of life; the lives that were lived in honor of God, Community, and Country. Participants are welcome to join Anthony's family and friends for a special birthday celebration after completion of the Defender Ruck Walk. There will be music, vendors, giveaways, camaraderie, friendship, love, and, of course, birthday cake. Participants are encouraged to use their own devices (smartwatches, etc.) to track their times.