MIAMI – Miami police officers are riding 180 miles to Key West to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research.
Since Bella Rodriguez-Torres died of cancer on May 28, 2013, Miami police have ridden their mountain bikes 180 miles to Key West. Last year, they rode 300 miles to Orlando.
This year's ride has already raised $35,000.
The bikers set off from Coconut Grove early Wednesday morning.
Bella's dream was to become a police officer. She lost her battle with cancer at the age of 10.
"It's very humbling to see the incredible support of this community and the continued support of the city of Miami police, especially at this time in our society," Bella's father, Raymond Rodriguez-Torres, said. "We're getting a chance to see what police officers are doing to give back to the community."
The bikers will stop in Key Largo before continuing on to Key West.