At Aero Tech Designs, we’ve always believed that cycling is more than two wheels and pedals; it’s a powerful way to bring communities together, honor local heroes, and invest in the future. That’s why we are honored and excited to announce that we are the Presenting Sponsor for Martha's Ride 2026.

This annual ride is one of the most inspiring cycling events in the region, connecting hundreds of miles of scenic trails, honoring extraordinary courage, and raising funds to build safe playgrounds for children across Pittsburgh.  The ride this year will take place on October 3^rd, 2026. Now in the event's second year, we are working hard to raise awareness and grow ridership. 

Whether you're a seasoned endurance cyclist or a family enjoying a casual weekend roll, Martha’s Ride brings cyclists from every corner of the Pittsburgh region together for an unforgettable day of fun and community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to ride the trail with fellow cyclists and pedal together toward a great cause.  Martha’s Fund has big plans for the remainder of 2026 and 2027 to build safer, brighter, and more fun play spaces for local kids.

Who Was Martha Dixon?

Born in Pittsburgh and raised in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Martha Dixon lived a life marked by passion, courage, and service. After earning her chemistry degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1982 and working as a forensic chemist, Martha answered a higher calling and joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1987.

At the Knoxville Field Office, Martha broke barriers by becoming the first female SWAT team member. Later assigned to the Washington, D.C. Field Office in 1992, she tackled tough cases involving violent crime and cold cases, and became a founding member of the Evidence Response Team, which was later renamed the Dixon-Martinez Evidence Response Team.

On November 22, 1994, when a gunman entered the cold case squad room at the Metropolitan Police Department headquarters in D.C., Martha chose to confront the attacker rather than retreat, sacrificing her life to protect her fellow agents and officers. She was posthumously awarded the FBI Memorial Star and Medal of Valor.

The Martha Fund: Building Safe Spaces for Kids

In the face of unimaginable grief, Martha’s family chose to honor her memory by channeling their love into two of her greatest passions: fitness and children. In 1995, they established The Martha Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to celebrating Martha's life and continuing her legacy of protecting and investing in the community.

Their Mission

The Martha Fund is a 100% volunteer-run organization with a clear, impactful mission: building and renovating public playgrounds for children across the greater Pittsburgh area.

Every dollar raised goes directly to funding safe, joyful spaces where kids can play, grow, and build strong neighborhoods. To date, The Martha Fund has contributed over $200,000 and built or rehabilitated more than 20 local playgrounds, transforming parks and schoolyards across the region into places of joy and safety.

What Is Martha's Ride?

Martha's Ride was created in 2018 as a unique bicycle fundraiser inspired by the law enforcement community and the Police Unity Tour. Today, it offers multiple ways for cyclists of all fitness levels to participate:

• The 335-Mile Endurance Ride: A 5-day journey that begins at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. (where Martha’s name is engraved) and follows the C&O Canal Towpath and Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) all the way to the Martha Dixon FBI Building in Pittsburgh.

• The 30-Mile Challenge Ride: A robust single-day route starting at Southside Riverfront Park under the Birmingham Bridge, designed for experienced cyclists who want to push their legs for a great cause.

• The 10-Mile Casual Ride: A relaxed, family-friendly scenic loop along the trail that welcomes riders of all ages and experience levels.

Both day rides end with a powerful tribute: a police escort leading the riders down Carson Street back to Southside Riverfront Park to celebrate.

Come Ride With Us!

Whether you're gearing up for the full 335-mile trail journey or looking for a fun 10-mile morning roll with family and friends, we’d love to have you riding alongside the Aero Tech Designs team.

• Register Today: Register for Martha's Ride on BikeReg
• Learn More About the Cause: Visit The Martha Fund

Together, every mile we ride helps build a safer, brighter future for Pittsburgh's kids!