I arrived in Urique after almost three full days of travel. One thing is to be said about this place, there is not easy way to get here. We descended over 7,000ft into the canyon, deeper than the Grand Canyon. Upon arrival, race preparations were well underway. The race directors were doing final preparations, the town has set up banners and turned the town square into race central. Many of the Tarahumara had arrived in town already wearing their traditional attire. Many with their entire family making the trip.

As we walked down the street we saw many of the international racers from around the world converging on Mama Tita’s restaurant, really the hub of town activities. Upon arrival we saw Japanese, Brazilians, Mexicans, Americans, Nicaraguans, Brits, Australians, Germans, Canadians and more. Truly an international race with a high caliber of runners on both the men’s and women’s races. As well the locals are here and ready to run!

Some of the runners here include recent Fuego y Agua Devil’s Double Winner Nick Hollon, Elite American Runner Ricky Gates, as well as Badwater finishers, Spartathlon top 5 finisher, as well as a 14 year old who recently ran a 100 mile race in under 24 hours. On the women’s side there are women from all over the world, including a local girl who is 15 years old and could possibly challenge the entire field. The young gun will have competition up against the 2010,2011 and runner up last year in the race. She is back looking to take her place back on the top.

One thing can be said this is a special race in a special place. Follow all the action on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram all weekend with #CCUM2014, as we share the culture, the race, and much more from Urique, Mexico and the Copper Canyons.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/dirtinyourskirt

Twitter: www.twitter.com/dirtinyourskirt

@dirtinyourskirt

Instagram: www.instagram.com/dirtinyourskirt

Follow #CCUM2014