Each outing consists of two different events, one being a competitive 10K and the other being a more relaxing 3K distance intended for families and others who want to participate without making a major physical commitment.

Coordinated by Fundación Natura and the Grupo Argos Foundation, with backing from Banco de Bogotá and the United States government, among others, the organizers expect some 7,500 runners this year.

After the running is over, the planting begins. Some 22,500 trees are expected to be planted during several “sowing days” in the departments of Cundinamarca (home to Bogotá), Antioquia (home to Medellín), and Santander.  The first two editions in 2015 and 2016 hosted a combined 11,000 runners and led to the planting of more than 40,000 trees.

“This race moves those who support, and the people who participate, for an environmental cause, encouraging conservation through planting trees,” said Ana Alejandra Jiménez, manager of corporate social responsibility at Banco de Bogotá. “Without a doubt, great changes occur when we unite in favor of a common good. We are motivated by the environmental character of the race, the conservation of the forest ecosystems of our country.”

Anyone interested in participating can resister at CarreraVerdeColombia.com.

Photo Credit: CarreraVerde.com