Maria Lorena Ramirez: A Champion of Ultrarunning in Simplicity
María Lorena Ramírez is an extraordinary athlete whose story has inspired my soul and my business. A member of Mexico’s Tarahumara (Rarámuri) indigenous community, she has become a symbol of endurance, simplicity, and cultural pride. Competing in some of the world’s most challenging ultramarathons (anything >26.2 miles), Ramírez has defied conventional athletic norms, running vast distances in a traditional skirt, homemade huaraches (sandals) and with minimal equipment. Her journey from her native Chihuahua to the international spotlight is a testament to resilience and the deep-rooted running tradition of her people.
Maria Lorena Ramirez
Wearing what is typical for her on race day.
The Tarahumara Legacy: Born to Run
The Tarahumara people, also known as Rarámuri, are renowned for their long-distance running ability (while wearing sandals). For centuries, they have used running as a way of life—traveling across the rugged Sierra Madre Occidental terrain, hunting, and participating in ceremonial races. Their endurance is legendary, and they have been studied by scientists and athletes alike, eager to understand their extraordinary stamina and injury resistance. Running is deeply ingrained in their culture, not just as a sport but as a mode of survival and tradition.
María Lorena Ramírez was born into this heritage. Raised in a remote community in Chihuahua, she grew up navigating mountainous landscapes, her strength and endurance developing naturally from an early age. Unlike professional athletes who train in high-tech environments, Ramírez honed her skills by simply living her daily life—herding goats and walking miles across the rugged terrain.
Breaking Barriers: Competing Without Conventional Gear
What sets Ramírez apart in the world of ultrarunning is her refusal to adopt modern athletic gear. She competes in races wearing a traditional long skirt and huarache sandals made from recycled tires, rejecting the cushioned running shoes that most athletes depend on. Her outfit reflects her deep connection to her culture, proving that success in sports isn’t always about the latest technology but about natural ability and determination.
Her minimalist approach extends beyond her attire. Unlike many ultrarunners who rely on energy gels, hydration packs, and sports drinks, she follows a simple diet, consuming traditional foods that sustain her energy throughout grueling races. Her success challenges conventional wisdom on what an athlete needs to perform at an elite level.
The Race That Changed Everything
In 2017, María Lorena Ramírez made history by winning the 50-kilometer UltraTrail Cerro Rojo in Puebla, Mexico. Competing against 500 runners from 12 countries, many of whom had expensive running shoes and high-tech gear, she crossed the finish line first, astonishing the ultrarunning world. Her victory was not just a personal achievement but a moment of pride for the Tarahumara people, proving the power of natural talent and cultural heritage.
What made her win even more remarkable was her lack of formal training. Unlike many elite athletes who spend years under the guidance of professional coaches, Ramírez continued her daily life as a shepherd, using her everyday routine as preparation. This victory propelled her into the international spotlight, earning her recognition beyond Mexico’s borders.
Global Recognition and Challenges
Following her groundbreaking victory, Ramírez was invited to compete in ultramarathons around the world. She participated in races in Spain and other international locations, continuing to run in her traditional attire. Media coverage and documentaries (Lorena, Light-Footed Woman) highlighted her journey, making her an inspiration for aspiring athletes and those interested in indigenous cultures.
However, with fame also came challenges. The increased attention brought commercial opportunities, but Ramírez has remained true to her roots, avoiding sponsorships that do not align with her values. While many companies sought to capitalize on her story, she has continued to prioritize her community and way of life over financial gain.
The rise in popularity of the Tarahumara running tradition has also sparked debates about cultural preservation and commercialization. Some argue that the growing interest in their techniques, footwear, and diet could lead to appropriation rather than genuine appreciation. Ramírez, through her actions, has become a guardian of this tradition, ensuring that the Tarahumara people’s legacy remains authentic and respected.
Lessons from María Lorena Ramírez
María Lorena Ramírez’s story is about more than just running—it’s about resilience, identity, and breaking stereotypes. Her success challenges the notion that elite athletes need the best gear and high-tech training to succeed. Instead, she proves that discipline, cultural strength, and a connection to one’s roots can be just as powerful.
For runners and non-runners alike, there are key takeaways from her journey:
Simplicity is Powerful – You don’t need the latest gear to achieve greatness. Ramírez’s victories prove that natural ability, perseverance, and a strong mindset are more important than expensive equipment.
Stay True to Your Roots – In a world that often pushes people to conform, Ramírez stands firm in her identity. Her commitment to running in traditional attire is a testament to the importance of cultural pride.
Hard Work Beats Hype – While many athletes rely on structured training programs, Ramírez’s success comes from her everyday lifestyle. Hard work, determination, and consistency matter more than external factors.
Nature is the Best Training Ground – Running in natural environments, rather than on treadmills or in controlled settings, builds resilience and adaptability. The Tarahumara people have thrived because they engage with nature daily.
A Lasting Legacy
María Lorena Ramírez continues to inspire people around the world. Whether she is running competitively or simply living her daily life, she represents the power of indigenous resilience and the beauty of traditional practices. In an age where sports have become increasingly commercialized, her story serves as a reminder that greatness doesn’t come from what you wear or own—it comes from within.
As more people discover her story, Ramírez’s legacy grows beyond ultrarunning. She has become a symbol of cultural pride, environmental sustainability, and the limitless potential of the human spirit. Whether she continues to dominate races or chooses a quieter path, her impact on the world of sports and beyond will remain undeniable.
Her journey is proof that true champions aren’t just defined by medals or records—they are defined by their character, resilience, and the stories they leave behind.