Cyclists Will Launch Ride Against Suicide on September 23
Three cyclists plan to travel 265 miles across Minnesota and Wisconsin to support first responder mental health.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy
Starting September 23, 2026, participants will embark on a four-day, 265-mile cycling journey to raise awareness for mental health among first responders. The Ride Against Suicide will feature three cyclists completing the full route through Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to bring attention to the critical mental health needs of first responders by visiting communities affected by the loss of emergency personnel. The event highlights the emotional challenges faced by those in public safety roles.
The 265-mile route features a total elevation climb of 10,000 feet. Three dedicated cyclists are committed to completing the entire four-day distance.
The players
Brandon Sell
He is a law enforcement veteran of 20 years who organized the Ride Against Suicide.
Invisible Wounds Project
This organization supports first responders and is hosting a benefit concert in Columbus.
Gary Schoeder Jr. Memorial
This site serves as the designated starting point for the four-day cycling event.
The details
Organized by Brandon Sell, a 20-year law enforcement veteran, the route begins at the Gary Schoeder Jr. Memorial in Zumbrota and makes stops in Goodhue and Red Wing. The journey concludes in Columbus, where the Invisible Wounds Project will host a benefit concert to mark the ride's end.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: The Ride Against Suicide begins at 8 a.m.
September 26, 2026: The ride concludes with a benefit concert.
Market Landscape
The expansion of this event from 230 miles in 2024 to 265 miles in 2026 reflects a growing effort to engage broader community support for first responder wellness. This mirrors a wider trend of using endurance athletics to fuel advocacy and raise visibility for specialized nonprofit causes.
Residents along the route in Zumbrota, Goodhue, Red Wing, and Columbus may encounter cyclists on public roads during the four-day period. Members of the public are invited to attend the concluding benefit concert in Columbus on September 26.
The takeaway
This event demonstrates how community-led physical challenges can generate meaningful support for critical social causes. Those looking to assist local first responders can find similar engagement opportunities through regional nonprofit organizations.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support emergency services in our Minnesota Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rochester Post Bulletin.
