BRAT has always been about more than the ride. This fundraiser exists to support the parks and partners that make this week possible – including David Crockett State Park, Cedars of Lebanon State Park, the Cumberland Trail, and the Tennessee Park Rangers Association. Funds raised through this campaign help improve and protect these places, whether that means repairing trails, restoring damaged areas, enhancing park facilities, or supporting the rangers who care for them every day. These are the landscapes we ride through, gather in, and return to year after year. This is our chance, as a community, to give back to the places that give BRAT its meaning.
The Impact Is Real
In past years, BRAT support has helped:
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Purchase essential trail equipment for the Cumberland Trail — tools that are actively building new miles of trail.
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Fund TPRA scholarships so park rangers can attend advanced training programs not covered by department funding.
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Donate $15,000 to Cumberland Mountain State Park in 2024, resulting in a brand-new bridge on the Pioneer Trail.
When you give, you’re not just donating.
You’re investing in the future of Tennessee’s outdoors.
How to Participate
1. Become a Fundraiser
Already registered for BRAT 2026?
You already have a fundraising page in PledgeReg.
Access your page HERE and share it with friends and family.
Fundraising is encouraged — not required — but every dollar helps us reach our $15,000 goal.
2. Support a Rider
Visit the PledgeReg page HERE, click “Donate to a participant or team,” search for their name, and make your gift online.
3. Donate Directly
You can also donate directly to the campaign by clicking “Donate to this Organization” on PledgeReg HERE.
Fundraising Tiers & Recognition
Incentives begin at $50, and top fundraisers will be recognized publicly, featured on our leaderboard, and celebrated during BRAT 2026.
Tier 1 – BRAT Supporter ($50)
Show your support for BRAT and Tennessee State Parks with digital recognition and donor appreciation.
Tier 2 – Ride Partner ($150)
Get closer to the ride with insider updates and exclusive donor-only BRAT swag.
Tier 3 – Route Champion ($250)
Go behind the scenes with a guided route preview ride alongside BRAT leadership.
Tier 4 – SAG Stop VIP ($500)
See your name on the route and be celebrated as a key supporter during BRAT 2026.
Tier 5 – Ride Insider ($750)
Recover like a pro with VIP perks—including a complimentary massage during BRAT.
Tier 6 – Route Captain ($1,000)
Help shape the future of BRAT with exclusive access, design input, and VIP experiences.
Tier 7 – Legacy Partner ($2,500)
Leave a lasting mark on BRAT with premier recognition and a personalized jersey honoring your impact.
GRAPHIC CARDS THAT GO INTO DETAIL ABOUT EACH TEIR – square or close to it
How You Can Fundraise Successfully:
Fundraising doesn’t have to be complicated—riders who start early and keep it personal raise the most support. A few simple steps can make a big difference.
Start early.
Give yourself time to build momentum. Early fundraising takes the pressure off and gives supporters more chances to say yes.
Tell your “why.”
Share what BRAT means to you—whether it’s the community, the challenge, or supporting Tennessee State Parks. People give to people, not just causes.
Share on social and email.
Post regularly on social media and send personal emails or messages. A mix of both helps you reach different audiences.
Ask more than once.
Not everyone sees your first post. Friendly reminders are okay—and often necessary—to reach your goal.
Thank your donors.
A quick thank-you goes a long way. Public shoutouts, personal messages, or updates help donors feel connected to your ride and its impact.
🚴 Rider Resources
Ready to start fundraising?
Access the official toolkit and social media graphics below.
Official BRAT Supporters
- Nancy Flowers
- Paul Mankin
- Patrick Bray
- Michele Barlow