[Better] News From The Canyons

After saddening news of hunger and despair following the severe draught that struck the Copper Canyons of Mexico, it seems hope is back and spirits are lifted among the great Running People.

Last weekend was a major Rarajipare, the traditional Raramuri sport, held between the Batopilas and the Urique canyon clans. Not only is it great to know the Raramuri keep this great tradition alive, but it also warms the heart to know that, thanks to donations from all over the world, including yours, over 10 tons of food were offered as prize to the people.

Caballo Blanco addressed the crowd at the awards ceremony and told them :

“Eres Raramuri: You are the running people. You are the messengers. You bring the good news to your communities. It is your responsibility to be sure that all the people in your communities have enough food, nutrition for the old ones, the babies, the ones without the strength that you possess.

Caballo has 200 costales [10 tons] of maize [food value] in my pocket. Muy peasado! [Very heavy].....IT... is bettter to give it away to lighten my load. Share this amongst your communities. Andale y hasta la 4 de Marzo"

This will bring some much-needed, immediate relief in the canyons and fares well for the incoming big event, the Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon 2012, where all Raramuri runners are invited to run and win some maize for their community.

There is still time to contribute to the food relief fund. The campaign will close this Friday, Februrary 3^rd, as I leave for Urique. If you haven’t contributed yet, please consider giving some of your money to help the Raramuri thrive. As little as 25$ buys a costale of maize.

You can make your donation here.

Kuira Ba,

Flint