Lorena Ramírez and the Rarámuri: Running to Remind the World They Exist

By Andrea Estrella, Bridges for Humanity.  

As I stood at the starting line of the Hong Kong Ultra, my heart raced with anticipation. Among the sea of eager athletes was Lorena Ramírez, a radiant symbol of the Rarámuri spirit. Alongside her fellow runners, José Mario and Mirna, she was about to take on one of the most challenging ultramarathons in the world. But for Lorena, this race was more than just a competition—it was an opportunity to share the story of her people, the Rarámuri, and remind the world of their enduring legacy.  

The Rarámuri: Light-Footed and Strong-Hearted

The Rarámuri, known as “those with light feet,” hail from the rugged Sierra Tarahumara in Chihuahua, Mexico. Their culture is deeply rooted in traditions that celebrate endurance, resilience, and a profound connection to the land. For them, running is not just a sport; it is a way of life, a spiritual practice, and a means of preserving their identity.  

Lorena, with her traditional skirt, sandals and tireless determination, embodies this legacy. As she shared her story with me, I was struck by the weight of her heritage. “When I run 100 kilometers, I sometimes feel tired, especially after 80 kilometers,” she said, “but I find the strength to finish.” Her words were a testament to the resilience of her community and the deep cultural significance of running for the Rarámuri.  

An Experience Beyond the Race 

The Hong Kong Ultra was more than just a race; it was a celebration of cultural exchange and human connection. Organized by Janet Ng and Steve Brammar, the event has become a cornerstone of the global trail-running community. But this year, it was also a stage for the Rarámuri to share their story with the world.  

As Lorena navigated the challenging terrain, her every step was a tribute to her ancestors and a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The support from Bridges for Humanity, the Consulate General of Mexico in Hong Kong, and the local Hispanic community was instrumental in creating a sense of belonging for Lorena and her fellow runners. Their cheers and encouragement along the route were a powerful reminder of the solidarity that can emerge when cultures come together.  

The Power of Visibility  

Lorena’s participation in the Hong Kong Ultra was not just about athletic achievement; it was about visibility. In a world that often marginalizes indigenous communities, her presence on the global stage was a powerful statement: the Rarámuri are here, and their culture matters.  

Through her runs, Lorena has become an ambassador for her people, showcasing the richness of Rarámuri traditions and the importance of preserving them. Her story is a call to action for all of us to recognize and celebrate the diversity that makes our world so vibrant.  

Final Reflection: Running to Exist, Running to Remember 

In a world that moves at a dizzying pace, where the new and the technological often overshadow the ancestral and the traditional, the runs of Lorena Ramírez and the Rarámuri are not just feats of physical endurance—they are acts of cultural resistance. Every kilometer they cover is a silent cry that reminds us: "We are here, we are part of this world, and our voice deserves to be heard."  

Through sports, running becomes more than a competition; it becomes a platform to reclaim the existence of communities that have been historically marginalized. Lorena doesn’t run just to win medals; she runs to remind the world that the Rarámuri, with their deep connection to the land and their living cultural heritage, have a place in the global narrative. And this is where we, as civil society, play a crucial role.  

This is not just about admiring their athletic ability or their spiritual connection to nature. It’s about asking ourselves: What are we doing to ensure that cultures like the Rarámuri don’t fade into oblivion? How can we, from our own spaces, contribute to their preservation and visibility? The support of organizations like Bridges for Humanity and communities abroad is not just an act of solidarity; it’s a tool of empowerment that allows these communities to keep their traditions alive and share them with the world.  

Lorena’s story invites us to reflect on our own responsibility in preserving cultural diversity. We cannot allow technological progress and public policies that exclude these communities to condemn them to invisibility. Instead, we must become active allies, bridges that connect their realities to ours, and amplifiers of their voices.  

In the end, Lorena’s race is not just a competition; it’s a reminder that cultural diversity is a treasure we must protect. Every step she takes is an invitation to run alongside her—not on a track, but in the fight for a world where all cultures, no matter how ancient or small, have a seat at the table. And that, perhaps, is the most important race of all.