Run Benefits Track Programs

The East L.A. Classic, the football game between Garfield and Roosevelt, is billed as the largest Latino athletic event in the United States.

Frank Gutierrez likes to call Sunday morning’s Aztlan International Classic 5K and 10K run the second-largest Latino athletic event in California.

Gutierrez, a counselor at East Los Angeles College and a City Section football official, is the director of the 17-year-old race that annually draws 4,000-5,000 participants and spectators. Proceeds from the event are distributed by the nonprofit Aztlan Athletic Congress to local high school track teams, summer youth programs and as scholarships.

The races begin and end in Weingart Stadium at East Los Angeles College. A cultural program includes mariachi music and folklorico, Azteca and Indian hoop dancers.

“It’s a quality cultural event intended to promote running and health and culture,” Gutierrez said. “This is a real nice family affair that everyone can enjoy. The proceeds go to young people because they are our future.”

Information: (626) 799-2357.