The BIPOC Athlete Fund
Community-powered and community-focused, the Athlete Fund removes barriers—financial, social, and systemic—for BIPOC runners new to trail running or needing support to stay in the sport.
Breaking Barriers, Building Community
The Tierra Libre Run Athlete Fund removes barriers—financial, social, and systemic—to trail racing for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) runners new to the sport or needing support to continue their trail running journey.
Created by and for our community, we prioritize the full spectrum of BIPOC identities and intersectionalities— understanding that our experiences as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and people with disabilities within the BIPOC community shape how we navigate outdoor spaces.
We're not just offering financial assistance—we're building a community where runners of color can thrive, grow, and transform the trail running landscape together.
What We Provide
Our support extends far beyond race entry fees. We provide a complete ecosystem of resources designed to help you succeed on and off the trails.
Race Entry Support
Full registration fees for trail races to remove one key barrier to participation. We cover 100% of your race entry costs, so you can focus on training and preparation instead of worrying about fees.
Race Gear Support
Essential race gear to ensure you have everything needed for success on race day. From running shoes and apparel to hydration packs and safety equipment, we work with our partners to provide gear when available.
Vibrant Community
Access to both in-person group runs and online community spaces where you'll connect with training partners, share experiences, and receive ongoing encouragement from fellow BIPOC trail runners. Build lasting relationships that extend far beyond race day.
Mentorship & Resources
Community guidance from BIPOC trail runners further along in their journey, plus access to training resources, race strategy workshops, and virtual learning sessions. Get personalized support tailored to your unique needs and goals.
How It Works
A simple, supportive process designed to get you from application to race day with confidence and community backing.
Apply
Complete the online application with your race preference and share your running background. We want to understand your journey and what support would be most meaningful for you.
Review
We'll review your application with care and contact you regarding your acceptance status. Our team considers each application individually, understanding that every runner's journey is unique.
Connect
Connect with fellow runners in our community to build relationships and prepare for your race. Join group runs, attend workshops, and get matched with a mentor if desired.
Race Day
Participate in your selected trail race with the full support of the Tierra Libre Run community. You've got this, and we've got you.
Program Requirements
We welcome applications from BIPOC runners who meet the following criteria:
Identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color (BIPOC)
New to trail running or doing your first trail race, or need support to continue in the sport
We prioritize intersectionalities within the BIPOC community, recognizing the unique experiences of women, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and people with disabilities
Engage with our community when possible to build connections and find support
Our Main Sponsor
Brooks Running
Brooks stepped up as our lead sponsor, understanding that barriers shouldn't keep runners of color off the trails. Their support covers race entries and provides essential gear, helping us build the community-powered fund our athletes deserve. This partnership allows us to focus on what matters most—getting BIPOC runners to the starting line and supporting them every step of the way.
Our Race Partners
These amazing race directors provide the trail running experiences our athletes participate in. Together, we're expanding access to some of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Daybreak Racing
Daybreak Racing specializes in challenging, original courses set in spectacular Pacific Northwest locations. The Oregon-based company prioritizes participant safety, inclusive race atmosphere, and professional organization while maintaining old-school charm. They offer well-marked courses, professional medical support, fully stocked aid stations, and partnerships with local sponsors, with donations supporting local beneficiaries at every event.
Miwok 100K
Miwok 100K is a legendary ultramarathon in the Marin Headlands, celebrating the drama and beauty of Northern California’s coastline. The course weaves through soaring ridgelines, lush redwoods, and sweeping ocean vistas, giving runners a rare blend of challenge and inspiration. Designed to highlight the region’s natural wonder and trail-running heritage, Miwok offers both seasoned ultrarunners and passionate newcomers an unforgettable, uplifting experience in a welcoming and community-focused environment.
Northwest Trail Runs
Northwest Trail Runs organizes trail running events throughout Washington State, focusing on well-marked courses that showcase the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Their events feature parks and trails within easy reach of the Seattle metropolitan area, offering both experienced trail runners and newcomers the opportunity to explore diverse terrain in a supportive racing environment.
Rainshadow Running
Since 2006, Rainshadow Running has been curating unforgettable destination trail races across the Pacific Northwest. Their events highlight some of the most breathtaking trails in the region—each course uniquely challenging, beautiful, and memorable. After the miles, runners are welcomed into one of the most vibrant post-race parties in the trail running world, with amazing food, local craft beer, and live music from regional bands. Rainshadow races are known not just for the trails, but for the community and celebration that follow.
Wonderland Running
Wonderland Running creates memorable races in magical Pacific Northwest locations, operating since 2019 with a focus on community and exploration. Based in Oregon, the company combines trail running expertise with environmental stewardship, offering well-organized events that celebrate the natural beauty of the Cascades and surrounding wilderness areas. Their community-focused approach emphasizes inclusive experiences that connect runners with spectacular landscapes.
Why This Matters
The Tierra Libre Run Athlete Fund was born from our own experiences as BIPOC runners navigating predominantly white spaces. We've felt the isolation, faced the barriers—financial, social, and systemic—and questioned whether trail running was truly for us.
We're not just offering financial assistance—we're building a community where runners of color can thrive, grow, and transform the trail running landscape together. Every funded athlete becomes part of a movement that's changing who gets to access these incredible experiences.
Whether you're new to trail running or looking to take your running journey to the next level, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Join Our Community
Whether you're looking to race or support our efforts, there's a place for you in our community. The Tierra Libre Run Athlete Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit initiative. All donations are tax-deductible through our fiscal sponsor (Tax ID: 81-2908499).
