Ride for 22 2026

Winston, Oregon. Wildlife Safari. A run to remember — and to save lives. The Ride for 22 5k Run/Walk takes place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM at the Wildlife Safari. A 5k run/walk raising awareness for veterans suicide. The "22" represents the estimated 22 veterans and service members who die by suicide every day. Registration includes a free event t‑shirt. Pre‑registration opens April 1, 2026.

Location — Wildlife Safari, Winston, Oregon:

• Wildlife Safari is a 600‑acre drive‑through wildlife park in southern Oregon's Umpqua Valley
• Address: 1790 Safari Road, Winston, OR (start location on Safari Road)
• The park is home to lions, tigers, bears, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and hundreds of other animals
• Participants run on paved roads within the park — possible animal sightings along the course
• Winston is approximately 20 minutes south of Roseburg, 2.5 hours south of Eugene

The Mission — Veterans Suicide Awareness:

• "22" refers to the estimated 22 veterans and active‑duty service members who die by suicide each day (according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
• The Ride for 22 event (typically a motorcycle ride) adds a 5k run/walk to raise awareness and funds
• Proceeds support veterans suicide prevention programs, mental health services, and peer support networks
• Specific beneficiary not listed — contact organizer for details

What's Included:

• Free event t‑shirt (included with registration)
• Timing? Not specified — likely untimed (run/walk for awareness, not competition)
• Finisher medal? Not specified
• Aid station with water (likely)
• Post‑race gathering (not specified)

Schedule:

• Saturday, June 20, 2026
• 7:00 AM — 5k run/walk start
• Pre‑registration opens April 1, 2026 (online via Race Roster)

Logistics:

• Parking available at Wildlife Safari (arrive early — limited spaces)
• Public transport: not available — drive required
• Bib pickup: race morning at the start (check event website for exact times)
• No dogs allowed (wildlife park — safety for animals and runners)
• Strollers allowed (start at the back)
• No refunds? Not specified — check with race director Linda Exceen

The Symbolism of 22:

• 22 veterans die by suicide every day — more than 8,000 each year
• This number includes both recent combat veterans and those who served decades ago
• Events like Ride for 22 aim to reduce stigma, encourage help‑seeking, and fund crisis intervention
• If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 (Veterans Crisis Line) or 1‑800‑273‑8255 (press 1)

Nearby Attractions (post‑race):

• Wildlife Safari — stay after the race to see the animals (separate admission)
• Umpqua River — fishing, kayaking, scenic drives
• Roseburg — wineries, breweries, and the Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History