Latinas on the Rise: Dominating the Trails at the Vacation Races Antelope Canyon Ultras

In the heart of Page, Arizona—surrounded by towering red rocks, winding slot canyons, and desert winds—Latinas Run made a powerful statement: we belong here. With over 30 runners from Latinas Run and Latinos Run taking part in this year’s Antelope Canyon Ultras, it was more than just a race. It was a movement.

At the center of this powerful presence were three women who took on the ultimate challenge—the 50-mile ultra: Zoilabella Calo and Joanna Rodriguez, both representing Latinas Run Phoenix, and fellow runner Joel Marquez, assistant ambassador for Latinos Run Denver.

Their journey through the desert wasn't just a personal triumph—it was a celebration of Latina endurance, strength, and visibility in a space where we’re often overlooked.

Redefining Ultra Spaces

Trail and ultra running continue to lack diversity. According to the American Trail Running Association, less than 8% of trail race participants identify as Hispanic or Latino. Yet, we are a growing force in the outdoor and fitness industries—passionate, dedicated, and loyal to the brands that uplift us (source: Outdoor Industry Association).

Events like the Antelope Canyon Ultras, organized by Vacation Races, offer not just a course, but a canvas for stories that often go untold. And our Latinas Run members made sure their voices—and footsteps—were heard.

The 50K, 30K, and Half: Every Mile with Purpose

From first-timers to seasoned runners, our Latinas showed up across all distances—50K, 30K, and Half Marathon—each one carrying a story, a purpose, and the weight of representation.

Whether it was climbing slickrock ridges or running alongside ancient canyon walls, these mujeres moved with purpose—por ellas, por nosotras, por todas.

Community. Connection. Change.

This movement isn’t just about one race—it’s about creating long-term visibility and equity. Latinas Run and Latinos Run continue to work toward a more inclusive trail and ultra-running space, where runners of all backgrounds feel safe, seen, and celebrated.

Brands like REI, HOKA, and Brooks have a role to play. When you invest in diverse communities, you invest in real stories, real impact, and real loyalty. We’re not a trend—we’re the future of this sport.

The Trail is for All of Us

Latinas Run’s presence at the Antelope Canyon Ultras was a reminder that the trail doesn’t belong to one type of runner. It belongs to those who show up, support one another, and keep moving forward.

Somos fuertes. Somos capaces. Somos Latinas.

This is what representation looks like. And we’re just getting started.

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