More than 2,000 cyclists take part in the Ben to the Shore bike tour
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Hundreds gathered along the route of Ben to the Shore bike tour to cheer on passing riders and greet them at the finish line.
This year marks the 39th annual event that takes riders on a 65-mile journey from the Ben Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia to Atlantic City.
"It's awesome. It's always such a fun event and we have such a great time. The kids love cheering for them, so, it's so nice," said Stephanie Glemser of Prospectville, Pennsylvania.
"I think this might be the nicest weather day in the 39 year history of the ride," said Mark O'Conner, Executive Director of the event.
This is the flagship fundraiser for the Families Behind the Badge Children's Foundation, raising money and support for families of local fallen first responders.
"This entire event is probably the biggest lifeline to me and my daughters," said Stephanie Mack.
Mack has been a steady participant in the event since her late husband, Pennsylvania State Trooper Martin Mack, was killed in the line of duty in 2022.
"The Bucks County Sheriff is riding my bike, Marty is still coming across the finish line, which is really huge," said Mack.
Mack is one of many honored on the Ben to the Shore wall of heroes.
This year, 18 family members of those firefighters, police officers and troopers participated.
"Some of them started their own groups. That means so much to us they all want to be involved and help others as we help them," said O'Conner.
Approximately 2,200 riders from 23 states and Canada participated.
"You may only have 5-10 minutes to talk to them quickly, but you form a super quick bond along the way," said Rich Stianche. "This is my 11th year doing it. I keep coming back for a reason."
"My husband's a police officer in Saint Clair, Pennsylvania. This is our third year doing the ride, so we come every year to support them and stay for the weekend," said Karina Jones of Pottsville, Pennsylvania.
Organizers tell Action News they are on track to raise their target goal of $1.5 million this year.
