2026 Warrior Ride
The 2026 Warrior Ride is a cycling and gravel event held on Saturday, September 12, 2026. It is located at 16015 John Marshall Hwy in Broad Run, Virginia.
- Date:
- Sat, Sep 12, 2026 at 7:30 AM
- Location:
-
16015 John Marshall Hwy
Broad Run, Virginia
20137
United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps - Links:
- willingwarriors.org Register at bikereg.com
- Tags:
- Cycling Gravel
Routes
Four distances are offered to provide a challenge for all fitness levels. Printed queue sheets will be available at pre-ride check-in on Friday, on event day and at the rest stops.
Metric - ORANGE Bibs
Metric Century Ride
25 Mile Road Ride - GREEN Bibs
25 Mile Road Route
Warrior Retreat Ride -10 Mile - YELLOW Bibs
10 Mile Warrior Retreat Route
Gravel - PURPLE Bibs
Gravel Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29283715
Thank you for participating in the 2026 Warrior Ride!
This event supports our nation's wounded, ill and injured service members through the services provided by the nonprofit organization Willing Warriors. Many of them will be participating in the event either as riders, volunteers, or part of the crowd cheering the riders on. Many active duty and veteran service members may also be participating. These outstanding individuals have given so much to defend our country. Through our work at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run, we've seen how the support of the community helps to lift their spirits, heal their hidden wounds, and rebuild their lives. The Warrior Bike Ride is your opportunity to see them, ride alongside them, get to know them, and thank them in person for the service and sacrifices they've given to our country. Whether you want to ride, volunteer or just be part of the crowd cheering them on, this is an event that you don't want to miss!
While our first and foremost goal is your safety, the most important decision is yours. Are you comfortable riding in a setting where there are other cyclists? If not, we understand and suggest that you wait until another day before riding in a group setting. In lieu of riding this year, please consider making a donation .
We are placing extra measures to enhance the safety of the event, but each of us is still responsible for our own actions. We can only control what we can control, which is ourselves. We greatly thank each of you in advance for your cooperation and patience!
Only REGISTERED Riders will be allowed on the course or at Rest Stops. Riders will be identified with a numbered colored bib. This bib will have the SAG Support and Emergency Phone numbers.
Event Rider Packet & Merchandise Pickup: Friday September 11; 3-7pm or Saturday September 12
Pickup location: The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, 16015 John Marshall Hwy Broad Run, VA 20137
Riders will be given a T-shirt (based on availability), Bib #, cue sheets and any last minute instructions on event day check-in.
This event will occur rain or shine
Timeline:
6:30 am: Registration Opens & Breakfast Begins
7:25 am: Opening Ceremonies
7:30 am: Metric Riders Depart
8:00 am: Gravel Riders Depart
9:00 am: 25 Mile Riders Depart
10:05 am: 10 Mile Riders Depart
11:00 am: Lunch Service Begins **Lunch served until all cyclists/volunteers are back at Farm Brewery **
2:00 pm: All Riders must be off roads
3:00 pm: Event Ends
Parking:
The Farm Brewery at Broad Run 16015 John Marshall Hwy Broad Run, VA 20137
What is the Warrior Ride?
The Warrior Ride is an activity filled day hosted at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, raising funds to support Willing Warriors. The day begins with riders taking on the challenge of either a 10 mile Road, 25 mile Road, 38 mile Gravel, or 62 mile Metric Century Road ride through the rolling back roads of Prince William and Loudoun Counties. All of our riders are encouraged to bring their friends and families to enjoy the afternoon at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run afterwards! (Extra Meal tickets MAY BE available for purchase on-site and online.) The afternoon starts with lunch and beverages!
WAIT!? We are riding on the highways and back roads??
Yes! Our area of Virginia has some amazing roads to ride on with amazing views! THE ROADS WILL NOT BE CLOSED! All riders are riding at their own risk. If you are not already familiar with the laws regarding bicyclists on Virginia highways, please take a few minutes to read: http://www.virginiadot.org/programs/bikeped/laws_and_safety_tips.asp
Do I need my own bike?
Yes, there will NOT be extra bikes at the event. We encourage you to visit Nova Cycleworks in Manassas, Woodbridge, or Herndon ahead of time to purchase or have your bike serviced! Tell them the Warrior Ride sent you!
Hammer Down Ride Center will have road bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes, available ONLY for those who PRE-BOOK at https://hammerdownridecenter.com/pages/rent-your-time If you have any questions, please contact Michael Rejent: 240-531-3303 or [email protected]
What type of bike is suitable?
We recommend that you use a bike which is designed for road use for the longer distanced road rides. Hybrids, touring bikes, recumbent trikes, and racer bikes may also be used. If you have additional questions, need new gear or a tune-up, please consult our friends at NoVA Cycleworks: https://www.novacycleworks.com
I am a beginner - are these rides suitable for me?
Definitely! As long as you’re fit enough to complete the distance there is no reason why you can’t take part. Distances vary in ride length with the longer routes offering multiple 'bail-out' spots. Our 10 mile Warrior Retreat Ride is a perfect way to get out on the roads for those who are new to cycling or worry about not being able to complete the longer distances.
How many people enter the events?
We have set a registration goal and limit of 400 cyclists. Please tell your friends to come join you on the ride!
How fit do I need to be?
You should be capable to ride the distance and climb the elevation of the category that you are entering. We recommend each participant adequately train for the distance they plan to ride. We don’t want you to overstretch yourself, have a bad day and not come back! Once you’ve done this for the first time you will be able to gauge if you’re fit enough to move on to the next length of ride for next year.
As a general guideline, an active adult who works out two or more times per week (cardio and leg strength training) and has little road experience should have a reasonable challenge to complete the 10-mile ride.
The Metric Century, is designed to be a sound test of physical and mental toughness while still being classified as a recreational ride.
How old or young should I be?
We ask that you are physically and mentally fit to complete the ride you’ve entered. We will be on major highways and back country roads; therefore we must ask that no children under the age of 16 participate.
Children under the age of 18 must attend the event with an accompanying adult who is over the age of 18.
17-year-olds can ride independently providing we have signed consent from a parent or guardian at the event center.
You know the ability of yourself and your children and are in the best position to decide if they can tackle the ride.
What should I take with me?
We recommend you carry a small tool kit, spare tube or tube patch kit, water, food (energy bars) and spare clothing if there is the possibility of the weather changing. Stocked rest stops have been placed throughout the routes with water, snacks, mechanic support and restrooms.
Light breakfast foods and drink will be available before you begin, provided by our sponsor Micron. Several Rest Areas will be positioned throughout the routes for hydration, snacks, communication and mechanicals. There will be beverages, BBQ lunch and activities at the Brewery after your ride so plan to stick around and have fun!
Is there a bike shop at the event?
NoVA Cycleworks will be present throughout the event at the event center, rest stops and providing SAG (Stragglers and Gear) Support. If there is anything specific for your bike, we won’t carry it, so please bring it with you to the event. Also, if the gear team checks your equipment or helps with last minute adjustments, air or other maintenance related support, PLEASE REMEMBER TO TIP THEM. They are volunteers, not paid by the event committee.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, Virginia state law requires all riders wear a helmet during our events. This is to comply with our responsibilities and ensure insurance coverage for the event. Riders that do not have a helmet will be refused entry to the event on the day.
Do I need insurance?
You do not need insurance to ride at our events but you are not covered by our policy either. Should you cause an accident or injury during our event you may be held personally responsible by the aggrieved party. It is therefore your choice if you wish to take out an individual insurance policy. We recommend you carry your medical insurance card with you.
Can I get a map of the route before the day?
Routes will be confirmed before the event once we have made sure there are no obstacles or dangers exist on the course that may require us to alter it. Links for each route are accessible at the top of these notes.
Registered riders will be able to view the routes via GPX files supplied in a pre-event email. Maps located on the event pages are for information purposes only and are subject to change. Printed maps of the final course routes will be available at packet pick-up and on ride day.
What's your refund policy?
As this is a charity event, your entry fees cannot be refunded under any circumstances. We appreciate your support and hope you will be able to join us next year!
Is food and drink available?
Yes! We will have complimentary breakfast and beverages available prior to your ride. The courses will have Rest Stops where riders can refuel and rehydrate.
Our friends at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run will be host to the final station stop and BBQ lunch will be provided for all riders, and those with Meal Tickets. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase at the brewery. All riders will receive one complimentary beverage ticket.
What happens if I have an accident or mechanical problem?
If you or anyone else is seriously injured on the course the first point of contact should be the emergency service number provided to you on your wrist band at registration. We will have EMT’s with transport vehicles positioned throughout the routes and ready to respond immediately.
In case of a minor injury or mechanical problem with your bike, your wrist band will have the number for SAG (Stragglers and Gear) Support. You should inform the organizers of the situation and your location so they can respond appropriately. For your safety, please move off the roadway while you await assistance.
What happens if I get lost?
The first thing you should do is try to physically locate yourself. Ask a walker, knock on a door or read signposts. Then look at your map to see if you can find your way back onto the route. If this is not possible, call the SAG number on your route map (NOT 911). Stay warm and visible in one location while we try to direct you back on to the route. In extreme circumstances, we will come and get you, but it might not be possible to put you back on the route, so you will be returned to the event headquarters.
Is racing okay?
No. This is NOT a race. We do not publish times in speed order and do not encourage race-type behavior. This is a fundraising event and it is social / recreational in nature. The intent is to raise awareness for Willing Warriors.
From a legal point of view, we mark out the route with arrows and tags. We purposely designed the routes so that if you want to cut out sections due to mechanical and energy problems, that’s fine. We do however recommend that you follow the route and map to avoid becoming lost.
Can I advertise at your event?
Yes – sponsorships / advertisements are welcomed (and appreciated!) Please email: [email protected]
Health Precautions
Stay home if you are sick or have been in contact with someone who is sick within the past 14 days. Consider taking a pass on the event if you’re part of a vulnerable group.
Be Informed! Read all event communication and signage, as it could contain important safety information on new event procedures and policies. Follow the instructions of medical personnel and Warrior Ride volunteers.
Maintain a safe and respectful distance from others.
Practice proper health and hygiene methods for hand washing, hand sanitizing, sneezing, coughing, etc.
You are welcome to wear a face covering if you want.
Show up on time for your assigned check-in and start time.