Grassroots Club Participates in 5 Kilometer Run for Agricultural Biodiversity

The Grassroots Club and their eggplants after completing the 5k

The Grassroots Club and their eggplants after completing the 5k

On September 20th, the global research institute Bioversity International hosted the first edition of a 5-kilometer run in order to raise awareness and funds for biodiversity. Members of Grassroots, John Cabot University’s environmental club, participated and had a lot of fun. The entry fee was 10 euro, but a t-shirt, a bag and two delicious eggplants were included.

A lot of people are familiar with the term “biodiversity” but don’t know how important it really is. The use of agricultural biodiversity can help make agricultural ecosystems more resilient and productive, and can contribute to better nutrition, productivity and livelihoods.

The run was quite challenging, but runners could easily distract themselves from the strenuous effort by admiring the beautiful surroundings. The race took place in the countryside around Maccarese, a picturesque town just outside Rome where the headquarters of Bioversity International is located.

It was nice to see people of all ages getting involved. Participants ranged from athletes to professionals to students, and everyone was warmly welcomed and cheered on when they crossed finish line. Grassroots hopes to see more events like this in the future and invites everyone in the JCU community to get involved.

Learn more about Clubs and Organizations at John Cabot University in Rome.

Learn more about Student Life at John Cabot University in Rome.