First published in the April 21 print issue of the Pasadena Outlook.
The Darryl Dunn Cinco de Mayo 5K Run and Walk will be held at 9 a.m. on Sunday, May 1, prior to a family festival called “Cinco de Mayo at the Rose Bowl” on the stadium’s field.
The 5K, with a 1K option for those who want to participate in a shorter distance, will be the start of a fun-filled day with access to healthy resources and information.
The event is named after Darryl Dunn, the Rose Bowl Stadium’s CEO/general manager, who is retiring June 30 after 27 years with the venue. Dunn is an avid walker who is often seen around the recreational loop just outside the gates of the stadium, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
“During one of these walks around the stadium, we discussed the topic of bringing back Pasadena’s Cinco de Mayo celebration, after more than a decade of its absence. The idea got in Darryl’s head of making this return a reality and hosting the event inside on the iconic field of the world-famous Rose Bowl,” said Ramon Miramontes, co-executive producer of the event, with Dunn.
“We are proud to be a community partner and join the Darryl Dunn Cinco de Mayo 5K Run and Walk. We are excited to participate and celebrate the Rose Bowl Stadium’s centennial,” said David Eads, executive director/CEO of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses.
The day won’t end there. Visitors can then attend the free Cinco de Mayo at the Rose Bowl event beginning at 10 a.m. Families will be able to enjoy live performances by mariachi group La Sonora Dinamita and folklorico dancers. They can also watch a soccer tournament, enjoy a children’s play area, stroll through an art and culture area featuring local artists and learn about local area resources and services in a health and wellness area.
Mayor Victor M. Gordo and Alice Mijares Recendezm, whose mother, Jesucita Mijares, founded Mijares Mexican restaurant in Pasadena in 1920, will be honored as the Cinco de Mayo co-grand marshals. Both have a long heritage and history in Pasadena, which makes them the perfect fit.
