On October 19, 2025, Onorio Tomás Juárez, a remarkable Rarámuri (Tarahumara) runner, made history at the Maratón Internacional de Juárez in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua.

While most of the elite athletes were donning advanced carbon-plated shoes, Onorio raced in traditional huaraches—simple sandals worn by his people for generations. These sandals, with their thin soles, are designed for navigating rugged mountain trails, not the smooth city pavements of a marathon.

But despite the significant disadvantage in footwear, Onorio didn’t just complete the marathon; he finished in 2:27:58, securing an impressive 9th place overall in the men’s category. His performance was a testament to his incredible strength, endurance, and the deep cultural heritage of the Rarámuri people, who are famed for their long-distance running prowess.

Not only did Onorio defy the odds to race alongside athletes with the latest running technology, but he also claimed 1st place in the Indigenous men’s category, becoming the first Rarámuri runner to cross the finish line.

The Rarámuri people, known for their legendary ability to run for incredible distances across difficult terrain, have long been champions of endurance. Onorio’s victory at the Maratón Internacional de Juárez highlighted not just his personal grit, but also the enduring connection between his people and their centuries-old tradition of long-distance running.

Onorio’s achievement serves as a powerful reminder that running isn’t just about the gear you wear—it’s about the years of cultural training, resilience, and dedication that come with each step. His story continues to inspire runners around the world, showing that passion, culture, and perseverance can defy expectations and push you beyond your limits.

This victory was more than just a race; it was a celebration of the strength of the Rarámuri spirit and the enduring power of tradition.