INDIGENOUS WOMAN WINS ULTRAMARATHON AFTER WALKING 14 HOURS JUST TO GET TO THE START LINE
Many people believe that having the latest gear or undergoing rigorous training is necessary to be a great athlete, but willpower is sometimes the most crucial component. Candelaria Rivas Ramos, a 30-year-old indigenous ultra-marathon runner, is a prime example of this. Despite having no prior experience in such sports, she completed the 2025 Canyon Ultra Marathon, which spanned 63 kilometres (51.57 miles).
Rivas Ramos belongs to the Rarámuri, an Indigenous group that resides in the state of Chihuahua in northern Mexico. They reside in a remote region of the Sierra Madre Occidental range that is home to tall mountains and steep gorges. The Rarámuri are accustomed to walking long distances, frequently in sandals, because of their somewhat remote location, which has made them skilled runners.
In honour of the significance and holy bond between the people and their capacity for long-distance running, the ultramarathon, which was held in the town of Guachochi, included a traditional Rarámuri blessing. The word "Rarámuri" even means "foot runner," "light feet," or "those who walk well" because of how strongly they are linked. "Some Tarahumara hunters may run their game to exhaustion, rather than utilising bow and arrow or bullets," according to the Milwaukee Public Museum.
Rivas Ramos took first position in the female competition after finishing the marathon in 7 hours and 34 minutes. As if that feat wasn't evidence enough of her stamina, she also walked 14 hours from her faraway home to the starting line.
She told the media after the race that she had no training other than living her normal life in the highlands.
"I was already aware of the annual race that is held here. She told TVC Deportes, "I came here this year to sign up for it around April, even though I had never participated before. Rivas Ramos revealed that she was motivated to participate in the ultramarathon after witnessing local runners come back from competitions with medals around their necks. She received a prize of 7,000 Mexican pesos ($370) and dedicated the victory to her family. Beyond her local neighbourhood, Rivas Ramos' accomplishment has served as an inspiration to people worldwide due to her perseverance and capacity to maximise her limited circumstances.