Stretched out along the length of the Higgins Avenue Bridge Wednesday evening, more than 110 runners set out on Run Wild Missoula’s monthly beer run for a chance to run with Micha True, better known in running circles as Caballo Blanco. The run preceded an “interactive discussion with beer” led by the man himself to raise awareness of Mexico’s Tarahumara Indians (Raramuri, in their language), their culture, and the Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon.
Due to rough terrain, widely dispersed settlements, and a history of nomadic life, the Raramuri developed a practice of running long distances which in turn became celebrations integral to their culture. Micha True began living with the Raramuri as part of his own spiritual and running exploration and evolution. Along the way he acquired the name Caballo Blanco (white horse) from the locals who witnessed his near daily runs of 20 to 40 miles around the lakes and canyons of the region. He also gained an appreciation for the tribes spirit based on Korima, or the circle of sharing. To help raise awareness and preserve the culture, Micha began organizing the Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon in 2003 which later became the subject of the New York Times’ best seller “Born to Run.” Four Run Wild Missoula members are headed to Mexico’s Sierra Madre mountains to run the race on March 6, 2011.
Following the beer run, more than 600 people turned up at the Wilma Theater for Micha’s presentation which began with a 9 minute video introduction to the race and the culture behind it. Big Sky Brewing Company donated plenty of Moose Drool and IPA which the beer loving attendees quickly bought out as part of the night’s fund raising efforts. Raffle tickets flew off the rolls for some great and some . . . uh. . .curious . . . running related prizes. By the end of the night, Missoula’s beer runners, running enthusiasts and other generous members of the community raised $5,400 for the Norawas De Raramuri – Friends of the Running People.
As for the beer run, the beautiful blue skies, setting sun and crisp, cool fall temperature provided the perfect setting for a 5 mile run along the banks of the Clark Fork River. Unfortunately, Caballo Blanco wasn’t among the colorful throng of runners who took over the local trail. It seems that a chilly morning run in Missoula’s Rattlesnake Recreation Area did what the Copper Canyon’s of the Sierra Madre have not. One strained calf later and we were content with a Caballo Blanco send off to “run free.” So run free we did. It’s not hard with great beer waiting at the end.
Great thanks is due to the sponsors: The Wilma Theater, Run Wild Missoula, Garlington, Lohn & Robinson, Momentum Athletic Training, Runners Edge, and Big Sky Brewing Company.
Note: This version updates the amount raised. It had originally been reported as $7,500. Regardless, it remains a great amount and another impressive show by the Missoula community.
