The Route: the second stage of the bicycle competition departs from CATIE in Turrialba to Ochomogo.

• The institution announced the renewal of its alliance with La Ruta, supported by its commitment to the work they carry out in the communities through which the competition passes.

October 2, 2023. One of the stages of the most extreme mountain biking race in the world, known as "La Ruta," will depart from the CATIE campus (Tropical Agricultural Research and Teaching Center) on Friday, December 1.

The event, characterized by its treacherous terrain, extreme elevations, and a journey through at least 20 microclimates in Costa Rica, will once again be based within the institution, becoming one of the most important sporting activities of the year.

Carlos Araya Quintero, Director of Business Development, Resource Mobilization, and Strategic Alliances, announced the renewal of the CATIE-La Ruta alliance, an action supported by their commitment to the work they carry out in the communities through which the competition passes, always aiming to make a positive impact.

"The CATIE and La Ruta have collaborated for many years, making one of the stops of the competition on our university campus. Both organizations share a vision of sustainability and community development. For both La Ruta and CATIE, communities are at the core of the work we do. We are very pleased that once again CATIE and Turrialba will host one of the stations of this prestigious international competition."

Born in 1993 in Costa Rica, La Ruta was the world's first multi-stage mountain bike race. It is considered by many as the toughest cycling event in the world, pushing participants to conquer their limits. Additionally, participants experience the most beautiful terrain, including the original path of the Spanish: Juan de Cavallón, Perafán de Rivera, and Juan Vásquez de Coronado.

A history of attachment and collaboration

The connection between "La Ruta" and CATIE dates back decades, when Florencia and her brother Román, the founder of "La Ruta de los Conquistadores," visited CATIE during their childhood. Their parents brought them to explore CATIE's properties, and they were captivated by the majesty of the Wallace building surrounded by the Turrialba rainforest.

Oscar Urbina Salazar, Florencia's father, was one of the first graduates of this prestigious institution, establishing a special bond. The Urbina family understood the importance of CATIE in scientific research and decided it should be widely promoted.

In 2012, Florencia began her relationship with "La Ruta" and CATIE. They requested the use of the facilities to include it as part of the mountain bike route that crosses the entire country. The response from CATIE was a warm yes, and since then, this collaboration has grown and thrived.

"Over the years, the relationship between 'La Ruta' and CATIE has been characterized by mutual respect and continuous support. The dedicated staff at CATIE has played a fundamental role in the logistical success of the event," Florencia said.

"The transition of 'La Ruta' to CATIE has become a symbolic moment for returning competitors, almost an annual pilgrimage. In addition to the competition, various activities have been carried out at CATIE, including craft fairs in Turrialba, the distribution of bicycles to outstanding students from remote schools, and cultural concerts," she mentioned.

An event that highlights science and the community

Starting a stage of "La Ruta" at CATIE also allows the participation of the Turrialba community and the companions of national and international competitors in one of the most challenging mountain biking competitions in the world, featuring prominent international and Costa Rican athletes.

Florencia Urbina expressed her desire to continue this collaboration in future editions, contributing to the recognition of CATIE's significant scientific contributions and achievements in various areas.

On Friday, December 1, CATIE will be the starting point of this epic mountain biking adventure, marking the beginning of the second day of competition for "La Ruta."