Photos from the 18th Annual Barrio Logan Grand Prix
By Brent E. Beltrán
On Saturday May 3 hundreds of cycling enthusiasts from throughout the region and beyond descended on San Diego’s most historic Mexican community for the 18th annual Barrio Logan Grand Prix.
This event, organized by the San Diego Bicycle Club to benefit the Logan Heights Family Health Center, has become one of the largest cycling events in southern California.
The Barrio Logan Grand Prix coincides each year with the Logan Heights Family Health Center Health Fair that offers free health screenings, free children’s vaccinations, free pregnancy testing, food, entertainment and prizes for those in attendance.
The grand prix was an all ages affair as youths, adults and seniors raced in their respective age groups to win a trophy, a kilo of tortillas from Gabriel’s Tortilleria and other prizes.
One of the highlights of the day was the Community Children’s Races where participating youths received medals and free bike helmets.
Cyclists from various teams, as well as individuals, raced on a .8 mile track through the northern section of Barrio Logan with the starting/finish line on Newton Ave near the iconic restaurant La Doña New Mexico Café.
Friends and family of the riders, as well as curious barrio residents, cheered on the racers as they sped through the figure eight track.
The Barrio Logan Grand Prix and the Logan Heights Family Health Center Health Fair are but two of the many exciting activities that take place regularly in Barrio Logan. From Chicano Park Day and the lively barrio arts scene to marches and protests against injustice to the upcoming summer music series organized by the Barrio Logan Association.
Barrio Logan is thriving in the face of maritime industry intransigence towards residents and continues to be a hub for art, culture, activism and other exciting activities like the Barrio Logan Grand Prix.