Sunday, January 9th, 2011
Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens

Cyclocross Racing & 5K Tropitrot

"On Sunday, January 9, 2011, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden will be the epicenter of Miami’s fitness community, as it hosts the first run and walk of the new year, the “Tropitrot 5K,” and "Tropical Cyclocross,” a series of off-road bicycle races expected to attract Florida’s top cyclists. Proceeds go to the Charlee Homes for Children Program of Miami-Dade County and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

The event starts with the “Tropitrot 5K,” a unique run and walk conducted along Fairchild’s world-renowned gardens. Dario Perez, the event’s organizer, explains: “We wanted to do a different 5K, one that would inspire participants to get out and take advantage of our community’s natural beauty. We immediately thought of Fairchild. This is an excellent opportunity to open the year strong by completing a 5K within a memorable family-friendly setting.”

Following the 5K, the day continues with the return of “Tropical Cyclocross,” a series of cycling races successfully conducted at Fairchild last season. Mr. Perez explains that “cyclocross is the fastest growing cycling discipline in the United States. Racing takes place over a mixed-terrain course. In the case of Fairchild, the course will include grass, pavement, sand sections, as well as man-made obstacles. There will be several races held during the day, as riders from different age groups and categories face like competitors.”

The race entry fee for the 5K is $20 in advance; $25 on race day. For the cyclocross races the entry fee is $30.00, but children race for free, while juniors and collegiate racers pay $5.00.

The Charlee Program of Miami-Dade County (www.charleeprogram.org) is a private not-for-profit agency that cares for local children placed in foster care due to abuse, abandonment and neglect. For the past 26 years, the Program has helped thousands of children in the foster care system begin a new life.
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Volunteers are needed on Saturday & Sunday. All volunteers race for free!.
Contact Dario Perez at (305) 379-9162 or email for details.


Don't have a cyclocross bike? You can rent one at Mack Cycles (305) 661-8363


Check out this video by Tony Blazejack from last year's race.