Ambler Police chief, officer participate in The Ben to The Shore

The 39th annual The Ben to the Shore Bike Tour was held this past weekend, and one rider is familiar to the residents in and around Ambler. He should be. He’s your police chief.

Chief Jeff Borkowski of the Ambler Borough Police Department participated in the fundraising charity bike event this year, as he had for many in the past.

“This event was hosted by the Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation,” said a post on the ABPD’s CrimeWatch page. “The Ben to the Shore Bike Tour on Sunday, July 26, 2026, is a charity bike ride that raises money to provide necessary financial relief to the families of fallen or critically injured first responders; to cultivate positive interactions and relationships between first responders and the communities they serve; and to provide mental and emotional wellbeing resources to first responders and their families.” 

The charity runs the event each year to raise necessary funds for its annual goals. The tour has three different routes, allowing cyclists of all skill levels to participate.

Jeff and mike at tour 26

“Participating riders have the option of cycling the full 65-mile route from the base of the Ben Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia, Pa. to Atlantic City, N.J.,” explained the tour’s 2026 website. “We also offer a 30-mile route from Hammonton, N.J. to Atlantic City, N.J., as well as a 10-mile route from Galloway, N.J. to Atlantic City, N.J.”

After the long ride, the cyclists are greeted for a celebration at the tour’s end.

“Riders are greeted by friends, family, volunteers, and supporters at the Showboat Hotel to celebrate their amazing accomplishment and raise additional funds at the legendary After Party,” said the event’s page.

Chief Jeff Borkowski and his family rode in this event over the weekend, according to ABPD. Additionally, Officer Michael Wambold accompanied Chief Borkowski, with both having completed the full 65-mile bike ride.

“Congrats to the Borkowskis and Officer Wambold on a job well done,” said the CrimeWatch post.

This wasn’t the chief’s first time riding in the tour. In July of 2024, we covered the chief’s ride with his wife. You can read the full story here: https://wissnow.com/news/public-safety/ambler-police-chief-jeff-borkowski-and-wife-earn-over-1100-for-annual-bike-tour/. 

Melissa Finley

Fideri Suburban Regional Editor Melissa Finley is a veteran journalist who has worked for a wide variety of publications throughout her career. A summa cum laude graduate of Penn State University's College of Communications (We are!) with a degree in journalism, Finley is a single mother to two kids, and her "baby" a 12-pound chi named The Mighty Quinn. She enjoys bringing news to readers far and wide on a variety of topics.