The Bradenton Elks Lodge No. 1511 will welcome participants in the 2026 Brotherhood Ride on Saturday, October 17, as firefighters, law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel cycle across Florida to honor first responders who died in the line of duty.
This year’s Brotherhood Ride will take place October 17–23, with approximately 50 cyclists and 20 support team members traveling about 600 miles from Fort Myers to Miami. The seven-day journey will honor 22 Florida first responders who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2025.
The riders are expected to arrive at the Bradenton Elks Lodge, located at 2511 75th Street West, at approximately 4 p.m. on October 17. Community members are invited to line the lodge driveway to welcome the cyclists, followed by a brief memorial service honoring local fallen first responders.
The Bradenton Elks will provide overnight accommodations and dinner for the riders on October 17, followed by breakfast on October 18. The lodge also plans to present a monetary donation to support the Brotherhood Ride’s mission.
The Brotherhood Ride was established in 2007 following the deaths of nine Charleston, South Carolina, firefighters who lost their lives battling a warehouse fire. The tragedy inspired fellow first responders to organize bicycle rides honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
Since its founding, the nonprofit organization has expanded its efforts to recognize fallen firefighters, law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel across multiple states. Through fundraising and annual rides, the organization provides emotional and financial assistance to surviving family members.
The Brotherhood Ride operates as a volunteer organization, with participating first responders donating their time. After expenses associated with conducting the rides, donated proceeds support designated beneficiaries and families of fallen first responders.
The Bradenton stop offers residents an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices made by emergency personnel while supporting the families they leave behind.
The public is encouraged to arrive before the riders’ anticipated 4 p.m. arrival on October 17 to participate in the welcome and remembrance ceremony.
Additional information about the organization, its annual ride and donation opportunities is available at www.brotherhoodride.com.
