Candelaria Rivas Ramos had no sponsors, no fancy gear, and no professional coach. What she had, however, was heart, heritage, and an iron will. The Mexican Indigenous marathon champ runner from a remote village in northern Mexico captured the world’s attention when she not only competed in the 2025 Canyon Ultra Marathon, one of the toughest footraces on the continent, but won it. Her victory wasn’t just about athleticism. It was about courage, identity, and breaking barriers.
A Humble Beginning Rooted in Resilience
Candelaria grew up in a small Indigenous community nestled in the Sierra Tarahumara region of Chihuahua, Mexico. Raised in a culture where endurance and running were more than sport, they were tradition, she often ran barefoot alongside family members to fetch water or travel between villages. Her people, often referred to as the Rarámuri or Tarahumara, are world-renowned for their long-distance running abilities, and Candelaria was no exception.
Without access to modern training facilities or equipment, she trained by running through canyons and along rugged mountain trails, developing a deep bond with the earth beneath her feet. Her connection to the land, spiritual strength, and physical endurance became the foundation of her running journey.
How She Got Into Running
Running, for Candelaria, was never about fame or medals. It was a way of life. From a young age, she participated in informal village races and helped elders with long treks. Over time, community elders recognized her natural talent and began encouraging her to pursue competitive running. Still, the idea of competing in a world-class ultra marathon seemed out of reach until she heard about the Canyon Ultra Marathon, a grueling event that would test even the most elite runners.
Determined to represent her community and prove her strength, she set her sights on the 2025 race, despite having no financial means to get there.
What Is the Canyon Ultra Marathon?
The Canyon Ultra Marathon is an elite-level ultramarathon held annually in the Copper Canyons of Chihuahua. With an unforgiving landscape of steep inclines, narrow trails, and high-altitude conditions, it’s considered one of the most challenging endurance races in the world. Participants cover a staggering 100 kilometers (about 62 miles), traversing terrain that demands not only peak physical fitness but mental and emotional strength.
The marathon also holds cultural significance, often inviting local Indigenous runners to compete alongside global athletes, a nod to the Rarámuri legacy of long-distance running.
14 Hours on Foot — Before the Race Even Began
Candelaria’s story made headlines before she even crossed the finish line. In order to attend the race, she walked 14 hours alone from her village to the starting point. She arrived with nothing but a small satchel, wearing hand-sewn traditional sandals. While other athletes warmed up with protein shakes and state-of-the-art shoes, Candelaria prepared in silence, mentally channeling generations of endurance runners from her bloodline.
Against all odds, she outpaced seasoned athletes and claimed first place, drawing global attention to her story.
Canelo Álvarez Steps In With a Game-Changing Gift
Among those moved by Candelaria’s journey was world champion boxer Canelo Álvarez, who donated $2 million to her following the race. The boxing superstar, known for supporting young Mexican talent, said he was inspired by her grit, humility, and powerful example of perseverance.
Canelo’s donation is expected to help fund education, nutrition, housing, and training resources not only for Candelaria, but potentially for other young Indigenous athletes in her region.
“Candelaria is a symbol of strength,” Canelo said in a statement. “She reminded us that greatness doesn’t always come from privilege, sometimes it comes from spirit.”
A New Chapter for Candelaria
With her newfound recognition and resources, Candelaria plans to continue running, not just in races, but as a representative of Indigenous excellence and resilience. She’s already inspired a new generation of girls in her village, who now see themselves not just as helpers or caretakers, but as champions.
Candelaria’s story is proof that you don’t need a head start to cross the finish line first, sometimes, you just need the heart to keep running.
