On May 24-28, WPTV News Channel 5 Chief Meteorologist Steve Weagle held his annual Ride for the Red Cross virtually, for the second year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s virtual ride was hosted at the WPTV news station in West Palm Beach, Fla., and once again rallied support from the community to assist the South Florida Red Cross in their disaster response and relief efforts.

Steve’s Ride for the Red Cross is more important than ever as we continue to see more devastating storms hit the United States with a record-breaking year for disasters in 2020.  The American Red Cross South Florida Region is asking every resident to be ready and prepared for hurricane season. 

This year, Steve’s virtual ride raised more than $86,000 and was broadcasted live on WPTV throughout the week, celebrating his 23 years of riding for the Red Cross and showcasing “Thank You” videos made by local partners and sponsors.

A special thank you to all the sponsors who supported Steve’s virtual ride:  Office Depot, ADT, Cross Country Healthcare, Marine Associates of Palm Beach County, Law Offices of Marc R. Gaylord, Bayview Construction, Lee Pearlson Steinberg Foundation, NCCI, and all other contributing sponsors for their wonderful support this year.

On the final day of Steve's Ride, the bike was auctioned off, and are thankful to Mr. Mark Minkin for securing the winning bid at $2,575.

Every year, Steve usually makes his way from Sebastian to Boca Raton to mark the beginning of hurricane season, educate residents on hurricane preparedness and raise critical funds to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross.

Although Steve’s Ride went virtual again this year, the support from the community remained. We are incredibly grateful to have the dedication and support of WPTV, Steve Weagle, and the community.

Ahead of the hurricane season, you can find preparedness information, safety tips, and additional emergency-related resources for you and your loved ones at redcross.org/hurricane.