Introduction
In a world where professional athletes are backed by coaches, sponsors, and cutting-edge gear, some stories remind us that true greatness comes from within. One such story is that of Candelaria Rivas Ramos, an Indigenous Rarámuri woman from Chihuahua, Mexico, who won the 2025 Canyon Ultra Marathon — a grueling 63km race — in 7 hours and 34 minutes.
She didn’t have a coach.
She didn’t have corporate sponsorship.
She didn’t even have modern running gear.
What she did have was determination, cultural pride, and the legendary endurance of her people.
Who is Candelaria Rivas Ramos?
Candelaria belongs to the Rarámuri — also known as the Tarahumara — an Indigenous group from northern Mexico renowned for their long-distance running abilities. The name Rarámuri translates to “light-footed ones,” and running has been a way of life for generations, serving purposes from hunting to cultural ceremonies.
The Race: Canyon Ultra Marathon 2025
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Distance: 63 kilometers
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Location: Chihuahua, Mexico
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Finish Time: 7 hours, 34 minutes
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Division: Women’s first place winner
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Attire: Traditional skirt and huarache sandals
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Preparation: Self-trained, no professional coaching
The 14-Hour Journey to the Starting Line
Incredibly, Candelaria’s marathon story began before the race itself. She walked 14 hours through mountainous terrain just to reach the starting point. By the time the race began, she had already covered more ground than many people walk in a week — yet she still managed to win her category.
No Sponsors, No Fancy Gear — Just Sheer Willpower
While most ultramarathon runners rely on lightweight shoes, hydration packs, and energy gels, Candelaria ran in everyday clothing and traditional sandals. She covered the distance with minimal resources, fueled by resilience and experience honed from a lifetime of running in her rugged homeland.
The Cultural Significance
For the Rarámuri, running is not just sport — it’s heritage. Traditionally, it’s a way to connect with the land, build community, and maintain health. Candelaria’s victory is more than a personal triumph; it’s a powerful reminder of Indigenous strength, tradition, and the idea that running is part of the human spirit, not just the realm of elite athletes.
Lessons for All Runners and Dreamers
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Start with what you have — equipment matters less than mindset.
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Consistency beats technology — daily movement builds lifelong endurance.
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Mental strength is the real fuel — determination can push you past your limits.
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Heritage is power — draw from your roots and your culture for strength.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Candelaria Rivas Ramos?
Candelaria Rivas Ramos is an Indigenous Rarámuri (Tarahumara) woman from Chihuahua, Mexico. She is known for winning the 2025 Canyon Ultra Marathon — a 63km race — in 7 hours and 34 minutes without a coach, sponsors, or modern running gear.
2. What is the Rarámuri (Tarahumara) tradition of running?
The Rarámuri people are renowned for their exceptional long-distance running ability. In their language, Rarámuri means “light-footed ones.” Running is deeply embedded in their culture — traditionally used for hunting, transportation, and community games, often done in huarache sandals.
3. How far did Candelaria walk before the race?
Before running the 63km ultramarathon, Candelaria walked 14 hours through rugged mountain terrain just to reach the starting line.
4. What gear did she use during the marathon?
Candelaria ran in traditional attire — a colorful skirt and huarache sandals — without any modern sports equipment or hydration systems, relying solely on her endurance and experience.
5. Where was the 2025 Canyon Ultra Marathon held?
The race took place in the Copper Canyon region of Chihuahua, Mexico, a mountainous area known for its challenging trails and connection to Rarámuri running heritage.
6. Why is her achievement inspiring?
Her victory is a symbol of perseverance, cultural pride, and the power of determination. It challenges the idea that only professionally trained and well-equipped athletes can excel in endurance sports.
7. How can I learn more about Rarámuri running culture?
Books like Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, documentaries such as Run Free: The True Story of Caballo Blanco, and visiting the Copper Canyon region offer deeper insights into the Rarámuri way of running.
8. What lessons can runners learn from her story?
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Start with what you have — don’t wait for perfect gear.
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Consistency builds endurance over time.
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Mental strength is just as important as physical training.
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Draw power from your roots and life experiences.
Conclusion:-
Candelaria Rivas Ramos’s 63km ultramarathon victory is an inspiring tale of grit, tradition, and resilience. She proved that champions are not defined by what they own, but by the courage in their hearts and the strength in their steps.
Her journey is a challenge to all of us: What’s stopping you from taking your first step toward your own goal?