Trail running to inspire: women leading the way
Trail running is more than a sport: it is a universal language, a space for sharing, expression and freedom for all. In this spirit, a number of local projects have recently been launched at UTMB World Series events.
From young women in conflict-affected regions to Rarámuri runners upholding an ancestral tradition, they all share the same drive: to move forward, to unite, and to inspire others.
Mukí: Rarámuri women, guardians of movement
In the heart of Mexico’s Sierra Tarahumara mountains — often described as the birthplace of the first ultra-runners — Rarámuri women took part in the inaugural Chihuahua by UTMB through the ‘Mukí’ initiative, which means ‘women’ in their language.
For the Rarámuri, running is a way of life and a powerful expression of cultural identity.
This project pays tribute to Rarámuri women, custodians of an ancestral tradition where running is not only a sport, but a way of being and of connecting with the land.
The Mukí initiative brought together women from different Rarámuri communities to share, exchange and celebrate their heritage through running. It strengthened intergenerational ties, showcased traditional knowledge and fostered the transmission of values such as solidarity, respect and perseverance — cornerstones of Rarámuri culture.
The project included:
The participation of leading Rarámuri athletes, invited to the first edition of Chihuahua by UTMB® to share their inspiring personal journeys. Among them were Argilia Orlinel, Verónica Palma and Rosa Parra, members of the RaRaRa team who competed in The Speed Project in the United States and drew global attention through their story. Also present were María Isadora Rodríguez, a living legend of Rarámuri running, alongside rising talents such as Amelia Farías and Perla Yaquelin González, representing the new generation of trail runners from the Sierra Tarahumara.
Full logistical support provided by the organisers, the community and the Chihuahua Tourism Office, covering equipment, transport and accommodation to enable each woman to fully participate.
A special exhibition of the traditional game Arihueta, a community race in which women roll a wooden hoop along the trails, symbolising endurance, unity and joy.
“I don’t run for competition, I run to reconnect with the land.” — Anareli Espino Sotelo, Norogachi community, Chihuahua
“For me, descending into the canyon is a deep and transformative spiritual experience, because it is not just about running — it is about learning to know yourself, to learn from yourself, and to truly listen.” — Irma Juana Chávez Cruz, Rejogochi community, Chihuahua
Free to Run: running as an act of resilience, beyond borders and conflict zones
The organisation Free to Run supports young women in Iraq and Afghanistan who use running as a tool for empowerment and resilience.
With the support of UTMB Cares, the project enables women from conflict-affected regions — where women’s rights are most at risk — to train, run together, and take part in UTMB World Series races. This collaboration not only aims to diversify the sport, but also to highlight the positive impact of running for girls and women in countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan.
In September, Atefa Rahimi, originally from Afghanistan and now based in Canada, became the first to embody this project by completing the 25km race at Ultra-Trail Whistler by UTMB.
Looking ahead, a group of six young Iraqi women and four Afghan women will run the 2025 edition of Mallorca by UTMB. Other Afghan refugees now living in Europe and North America will also participate in races across the circuit, united by a shared dream: to one day run the trails of the OCC at HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc.
Free to Run : courir comme acte de résilience, au-delà des frontières et des zones en conflits
“Taking part in my first UTMB World Series race at Whistler meant far more than just running: it reflected everything I carry within me. After months of uncertainty, heartbreak and rebuilding, running those trails felt like reclaiming a part of myself I thought was lost. Every climb, every step reminded me why I run: because for me, running has always been about survival, healing and freedom. Crossing that finish line proved that even in the hardest moments I can keep moving forward — and that I am stronger than the weight of my past. Running with Free to Run and representing the voice of Afghan women made this experience even more meaningful. I wasn’t running only for myself, but to show that no matter where we come from, we too belong on these trails. I am so happy and grateful to be part of the Free to Run project… and for this opportunity. I feel truly blessed.” — Atefa Rahimi
