Cycling, running, and walking are regular Sunday activities for many South Floridians, but their physical efforts will take on extra meaning the morning of February 28, 2016. That’s when the 7th annual ANF Group Tour de Broward will take place at Miramar Regional Park and thousands will exercise to help children and families at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
The community fundraiser, sponsored by ANF Group, consists of 50 and 100K bicycle rides, a 5K timed run, 3K walk, and the “Power of Play Kid Zone,” a sportsthemed, fun area for children 13 or younger. Offering something for every age, physical ability, and level of fitness, Tour de Broward registration fees range from $10-$40, depending on the event and sign-up date. Participants can register in advance at tourdebroward. com, or on the day of the events.
The 2015 event raised $440,870, positively impacting many services provided to thousands of children who require outpatient visits, surgery and other medical services at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. This year’s dollars are earmarked for the expansion of pediatric programs and services. In its six-year history, the Tour de Broward has raised more than $2 million to aid the growth of the Hollywood-based hospital.
Johnny Pastorius is a living, breathing, case study of the impact Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital has for those in the community. The 11-year-old from Pompano Beach completes the 5K Run each year, despite being less than three years removed from surgery that patched a hole in his heart. Pastorius ran the Tour de Broward shirtless last year, with “6-4-2012, Open Heart Surgery, JDCH” written on his chest.
“We thought if it might inspire one person or family, then it was worth doing,” said John Pastorius IV, Johnny’s father. “My son’s not shy about taking off his shirt and we figured that people going through what he did should see that you can get back a normal life with the right care.”
Miramar Regional Park is located at 16801 Miramar Parkway in southwest Broward. The 100K ride starts at 7:00 a.m., run at 8:00 am and walk at 9:00 a.m. Registration is available in advance or on event day. For those unable to participate on the 28th, a virtual participation donation can be made online at tourdebroward.com.
To learn more about Tour de Broward sponsorship opportunities, call 954-265- 7241.
