Fast-growing Naranjito 5K is ‘sold out’ for its 2nd edition.

The 5K race in Naranjito, which this year adopts the theme “Ponte Chango: Camínalo, Córrelo, Gatealo” (Get Your Chango On: Walk It, Run It, Crawl It), is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 29 at 6 a.m.

By THE STAR STAFF

A 5K race organized by GB Neuro Project (formerly Academia Santa Teresita) in the Cedro Arriba neighborhood of Naranjito has achieved a new participation record for its second edition: “GB Te Lleva a la Meta” (GB Takes You to the Finish Line).

By successfully selling all 500 available spots, the race has established itself as one of the fastest-growing community sports events in the central region of Puerto Rico in recent times.

The race, which this year adopts the theme “Ponte Chango: Camínalo, Córrelo, Gatealo” (Get Your Chango On: Walk It, Run It, Crawl It), is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 29 at 6 a.m. It aims to highlight the athletic spirit and cultural identity of Naranjito, popularly known as “the Land of the Changos.”

“The growth of the event has been remarkable; we have received an impressive reception,” said Olga “Kiki” Rodríguez, director of GB Neuro Project. “Some 206 athletes participated in the first edition, whereas for this second edition, we initially offered 300 registration kits, which included an official T-shirt, wristband, runner’s bib with an electronic timing chip, and a finisher’s medal. Faced with high demand from runners, we decided to increase availability to 400 kits; subsequently, we had to expand registration further to accommodate up to 500 participants -- with this final phase including the official runner’s bib and the event medal.”

Ultimately, registration reached its maximum capacity, achieving a complete “sell-out” days before the race was set to take place -- a testament to the growing interest among runners, walkers, and athletes from various parts of the island.

The event will award cash prizes to the top three male and female finishers: first place: $1,000; second place: $500; and third place: $300; ​​among other categories. The race will start at 6 a.m. sharp from the Cedro Arriba neighborhood, and participation is expected from experienced runners, recreational athletes and families.

The event has the backing of its flagship sponsor, Benitez Insurance Agency, as well as the support of other sponsors in the Silver, Bronze, and “Friends of the 5K” categories.

Further information about the event is available at pontechango5k.com.