The indigenous marathon runner who competed (again) the Ultramarathon running with the sandals and the traditional skirt

María Lorena Ramírez is a name that is changing the face of the ultramarathon. Born and raised in a small village of Chihuahua state in Mexico, it belongs to the Rarámuri people, whose name means “run -walks”. In a world dominated by sponsors, hyper -technological equipment and athletic preparers, Lorena stands out for her disarming authenticity.

In fact, Lorena runs wearing a traditional colorful skirt and her inseparable Guaraches, sandals handcrafted with rubber recycled by tires. No trail shoes of 200 euros, no energy supplements, just a water bottle, a neck for neck and an unwavering determination.

Will it always come last? Of course not: in 2017 he surprised the world by winning the Ultra Trail Cerro Rojo: 50 km in 7 hours and 3 minutes, beating 500 athletes from 12 countries. A company completed at only 22 years of age, who attracted the attention of the international press.

The latest company: the Hong Kong Ultramarathon

In January 2025 he took part in the Hong Kong Ultramarathon, a very hard 100 km race with over 2,000 participants. During the race he had to face lesions on his feet, but he continued the race with both blindfolded ankles, cutting the finish line in 26 hours and 2 minutes, ranking 328th.

A few days earlier, his brother José Mario also participated in a 56 km race. Lorena does not run for fame or money, but for cultural pride and passion. Its international trips are made possible only thanks to the donations and funds of the organizers.

Its history also arrived in Netflix, not without controversy

In 2019 Netflix told his story with the documentary “Lorena, Light-Foted Woman”but the compensation received was ridiculous: only a mattress, a bed base and a stove. Yet Lorena continued, without complaining, bringing her message with her: it is not necessary to give up her identity to chase a dream.

Today Lorena has become a symbol of resistance and integrity. Despite the obstacles, he continues to run for himself, for his family, for his community. And we continue to cheer for her, waiting for the next race where, we are sure, she will still leave the mark.

Don’t you want to lose our news?

You may also be interested in: