Chanda Picott, a spokesperson for Aztlan Athletics that co-organized the event, said the number of participants of this year has tripled.

“We’re so glad that we have a much bigger crowd this year. People are just eager to get involved," Picott said. "Seventy-five percent of our income-registration fees and donations will go to programs of Homeboy Industries, which will help gang-involved young people to find jobs and receive education and training.”

The age of participants ranged from six to 80. While some took the race really seriously -- such as Aron Zambrano, who finished first in under 18 minutes -- others just came to show support.

“In the 15 years, I spent most of my life swinging between jail and Homeboy Industries," said Fabian Debora, who now works as a Homeboy drug counselor. "I finally was able to re-clear my life at 30. Now I want to pay back, to get my self-worth.”

Here is the video of the race.

Reach staff reporter Kay Chinn here.