Next event: woodcutting at Joey and Cecilia's on Oct. 4-5
About us
WHO WE ARE
Honoring the Legacy
Honoring the Legacy
The California 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon Relay Team, following the leadership and tradition of early Native American runners who were messengers, is a multicultural group of individuals dedicated to preserving the tradition of spiritual running.
The American Indian Movement authorizes this annual run and continues to sup
The California 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon Relay Team, following the leadership and tradition of early Native American runners who were messengers, is a multicultural group of individuals dedicated to preserving the tradition of spiritual running.
The American Indian Movement authorizes this annual run and continues to support it. Our principal message is: “All Life is Sacred”
We run and train together in different locations about once a month. In June, we run across California in our annual 500 Mile Spiritual Marathon. It’s a non-competitive relay where teams of runners participate in a running prayer by carrying a sacred staff. Runners will often pray for those who are sick or in prison. We also pray for the preservation of sacred Native American sites and Mother Earth. At the end of each day, the teams gather in a circle to drum, sing songs, and share stories.
The emphasis in our events is spirit, not only running ability.
We have men and women runners from many cultures and of different ages. There are also non-running team members who support the runners by driving vehicles, preparing meals, setting up camp, etc.
During the year, the team also participates in service projects for those in need. Our projects have included:
· Visiting prisons to share hope,
· Cutting firewood for elders,
· Setting up teepees for ceremony,
· Building arbors,
· Walking for peace and the preservation of sacred sites,
· Working with wildlife proponents,
· Bringing pow-wows to prisons,
· Visiting hospitals, and more.
All of our events are alcohol and drug-free.
Honoring the Legacy
Honoring the Legacy
Honoring the Legacy
The History and Purpose of the California 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon Relay
The First Native American Spiritual Marathon was started in June, 1978 by Dennis Banks, co-founder of the American Indian Movement. The run was held to commemorate the Longest Walk, in which over 500 North American tribes agreed to walk from San F
The History and Purpose of the California 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon Relay
The First Native American Spiritual Marathon was started in June, 1978 by Dennis Banks, co-founder of the American Indian Movement. The run was held to commemorate the Longest Walk, in which over 500 North American tribes agreed to walk from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., to show the dismal plight of Native people and lobby for the Native American Freedom of Religious Act. The U.S. Congress ratified the act that year, and the Sundance Ceremony was brought to D.Q. University in California.
In 1980, Dennis Banks had to leave the state of California, and he entrusted the responsibility of the runs to Bill "Mosco" Ramos. The runs have been held annually ever since, following the tradition of early Native American runners who ran between villages and distant tribes. The main purpose is to carry the message of the sacredness of all life, our relationship to all living species, and the need to maintain the delicate balance that exists between humankind and Mother Earth.
The original teams were: American Indian Center of San Francisco, CA Aztlan Track Club of Los Angeles, CA Aztlan Track Club of San Jose, CA Bay Area Roadrunners (Intertribal Friendship House) of Oakland, CA Bridgeport Indian Reservation, CA David Chief's Runners, Winters, CA DeOcampo Clan, Vallejo, CA D.Q. University, Davis, CA Four Winds Lodge Runners of San Jose, CA Mosquitos Club of San Jose, CA Paiute Runners of Oakland, CA San Jose State University, CA San Diego Hopkins Clan, CA T.E.N.A. Council, Hollister, CA Three Rivers Lodge, Manteca, CA
We would like to acknowledge and keep alive the names of the original leaders of these spiritual clans who did what most would think impossible under harsh conditions. They taught generations to carry on the rituals and ceremonies to preserve Mother Earth.
We offer our humble prayers of thanks to: Dennis Banks, Fred and Connie Short, Maggie DeOcampo, Bea DeOcampo and Wounded Knee, Linda DeOcampo, Jackie Blossom, David Chief, Elmira White, Darrell Standing Elk, Hank Lebeau, Glen Hing, Debbie Murrillo, Bill "Mosco" Ramos, Ralph Charlie, Alan Levanthal, Shirley Hopkins, Chemo Candelaria, Tom Phillips, Charlotte & Richard Baker, Mildred Hawkins, Grandpa Shorty Stone, Shorty & Carol Stone, Emma Stone, Jim Brown, Steve Searles, Bob Edwards, Sandra Jefferson, John Malloy, Arturo Rodriguez, Rudy Delgado, Danny and Nancy Romero, Monica Parra, Cesar & Helen Chavez, Paul Chavez, Randy Klein, Pablo Viramontes, Scott Harger, Kermit Cuff, Carlos Castro, Jun Yasuda aka Junsan, Joey & Cecilia Silvas, Priscilla
and Michael Hunter, Warren and Danita Quinn, Priest Martinez, Wayne Mitchum Jr, Amanda Mitchum, Ron, Bruce, Isidro and Tony Gali, Morning Star Gali, Corrina Gould, and Johnnella LaRose.
In the beginning, Dennis Banks, co-founder of the American Indian Movement, and Cesar Chavez, founder of the United Farm Workers, joined hands and agreed that La Paz, a peace compound outside of Bakersfield and now the resting place of Cesar, would host the 500-Mile Run along with the historical first Indian university west of the Mississippi River, D.Q. University in Davis, CA. Dennis was D.Q.'s first president.
From 1978 until 1984, there were usually about 15 teams participating as separate entries. Over time, it became difficult economically for separate teams to sponsor themselves, so it was agreed that different members could run under one flag on one main team. Members are divided into units of 10-12 runners, and each team carries a sacred staff.
After 1984, the 500 Mile team added Three Rivers Recovery Lodge in Manteca and the Mosquito Club in Ripon as ending destinations during different years. La Paz has always remained the starting honor spot to begin the 500 Mile Marathon Relay.
For the last twenty-one years, there has been a northern route as the initial southern route continues. The northern route now starts at Pitt River Nation near Burney, CA, and completes the run at the Rumsey Rancheria.
Without our friends and honor spots along the way, we could not accomplish our mission. These sites and community treasures include:
· United Farm Workers, Keene, CA
· Bishop Reservation
· Big Pine Reservation
· Lone Pine Reservation
· Bridgeport Reservation
· Tuolumne Rancheria
· Mosquito Club, Ripon, CA
· Three Rivers Lodge, Manteca, CA
· Elem Reservation, Clearlake, CA
· Pit River Reservation
· Rumsey Rancheria
· Coyote Valley Rancheria
· Hilltop Recovery Center
· Colusa Rancheria
· Mendocino Consolidated Tribal Health Project Governing Board
CONTACT US
Honoring the Legacy
CONTACT US
Kermit Cuff
Team Captain
tierno23@yahoo.com
John Malloy
Director/Trainer
650-941-4341
johnthunder1022@yahoo.com
TeAM LEADERS
John “Rolling Thunder” Malloy – Team Director
Wounded Knee DeOcampo (September 19, 1942 – October 7, 2024)
John “Rolling Thunder” Malloy – Team Director
John’s view of the run is the long view - 47 years. His responsibility is to carry forward the vision of his friend, leader, and teacher Dennis Banks. To do this, we must maintain the safety and integrity of the circle by respecting all the people of the four directions. John models principles over personalities. Harmony is part of the r
John’s view of the run is the long view - 47 years. His responsibility is to carry forward the vision of his friend, leader, and teacher Dennis Banks. To do this, we must maintain the safety and integrity of the circle by respecting all the people of the four directions. John models principles over personalities. Harmony is part of the run culture. He helps determine the four-year themes and cycles. At the center of our spiritual running prayer is always the protection, preservation, and honoring of the water, the land, and the air. We have been taught to aim for balance between nature and humankind. We teach earth ethics during our trainings. John mentors the run captains and maintains relationships with the leaders and elders of multi-tribal nations and clans, guaranteeing respect for customs, protocols, and priority issues. John reminds us of what has been taught to him by American Indian Movement leader Dennis Banks, spiritual advisor Fred Short, and prayer man Wounded Knee DeOcampo - that relationships and friendships are at the heart of our long-distance runs.
Fred Short – Team Spiritual Advisor
Wounded Knee DeOcampo (September 19, 1942 – October 7, 2024)
John “Rolling Thunder” Malloy – Team Director
Fred’s history goes back to the origins of our Sacred Run in 1978. He has been the backbone of our ongoing effort. His relationship with AIM co-founder Dennis Banks has helped keep the vision and integrity of the Run strong. Fred is a most thoughtful leader, quietly carrying tough issues and great opportunities through his vast experienc
Fred’s history goes back to the origins of our Sacred Run in 1978. He has been the backbone of our ongoing effort. His relationship with AIM co-founder Dennis Banks has helped keep the vision and integrity of the Run strong. Fred is a most thoughtful leader, quietly carrying tough issues and great opportunities through his vast experiences with Native communities across the country. He loves to sing, drum, and dance, and is most proud of more than half a century of sobriety. He scouted our California Trail of Tears Run route, which has now been established for 22 years. Fred is most trusted and esteemed for his unselfish, give-away nature. He has lived 79 years strong
Wounded Knee DeOcampo (September 19, 1942 – October 7, 2024)
Wounded Knee DeOcampo (September 19, 1942 – October 7, 2024)
Wounded Knee DeOcampo (September 19, 1942 – October 7, 2024)
Wounded Knee DeOcampo will always be our soul force and prayer man. He died bravely at home. He was the carrier of the Eagle Sacred Run staff, given to him by Dennis Banks for his legendary five “Longest Walks” from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., beginning with the first in 1978. He walked to highlight and guarantee Native freedom of
Wounded Knee DeOcampo will always be our soul force and prayer man. He died bravely at home. He was the carrier of the Eagle Sacred Run staff, given to him by Dennis Banks for his legendary five “Longest Walks” from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., beginning with the first in 1978. He walked to highlight and guarantee Native freedom of religion rights, and freedom itself.
Wounded was an absolutely tireless Native representative and messenger, traveling from camp to camp, uniting peoples with his prayers and fierce calls to preserve, protect, and honor all life forms - starting with the water, the air, and the land. Guided by the spirit of his mother, Big Mama, he led us with prayers, compassion, love, and earth ethic knowledge. We will always be Dennis Banks, Fred Short, and Wounded Knee’s team.
TEAM CAPTAINS
Kermit Cuff - Run Team Captain
Rosa Ontiveros – Support Team Captain
Rosa Ontiveros – Support Team Captain
I started running at age 40 when I joined the 500 Mile team in 1999. I began running longer distances to challenge myself, starting with 10k races, then half marathons, marathons and 50k’s. I was drawn toward the longer events and started doing 50 mile and 100 mile runs, 24-hr. events and eventually the Badwater Ultramarathon, which I fi
I started running at age 40 when I joined the 500 Mile team in 1999. I began running longer distances to challenge myself, starting with 10k races, then half marathons, marathons and 50k’s. I was drawn toward the longer events and started doing 50 mile and 100 mile runs, 24-hr. events and eventually the Badwater Ultramarathon, which I finished 3 times. I also mentored young people who also aspired to run long distances. The proudest moment of my life was being present when team member, Miguel Vivaldo completed his first 100 mile race at age 13. I have been involved with the 500 Mile team since I started running with them in 1999. I was appointed captain in the early 2000’s and have continued to hold that position (even while my running ability has declined). I know that consistency is important - that the team needs leaders they can rely on year in, year out and I strive to provide that. I believe in leading by example and encouraging others to bring their best selves. My philosophy on training is also to be consistent and I like to run all year long. It’s a lifestyle. It’s good to run different distances on various terrains and in all weather conditions. This way we’re prepared no matter what the circumstances. Running with a spiritual purpose is powerful and can help you overcome personal difficulties and inspire others.
Rosa Ontiveros – Support Team Captain
Rosa Ontiveros – Support Team Captain
Rosa Ontiveros – Support Team Captain
I am blessed to serve as the Support Team Captain for the 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon. While I am not a Spirit Runner, I like to think of myself as a Spirit Hiker. Nature is my church and walking among the trees, being surrounded by the four legged and two winged is my prayer, my way of connecting with Creator, and my way
I am blessed to serve as the Support Team Captain for the 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon. While I am not a Spirit Runner, I like to think of myself as a Spirit Hiker. Nature is my church and walking among the trees, being surrounded by the four legged and two winged is my prayer, my way of connecting with Creator, and my way of finding balance. You don't have to be a runner to support the run and live the prayer. One of my gifts is organization, and I happily give that gift to the team to help ensure both runners and support go down the road in a good way. Whether it be during our monthly trainings or our weeklong run in June, supporting the runners on this spiritual journey is an honor, and I see it as essential in carrying our message - that all life is sacred - to all the communities we run through and for. Being part of this spiritual community that honors Mother Earth and lives by the belief that we are all connected and must all be protected fills me with gratitude and purpose.
Gene Deruntz – Run Team Captain
Rosa Ontiveros – Support Team Captain
Gene Deruntz – Run Team Captain
Greetings, my name is Gene. I’ve been involved with the 500 Mile Run for about 30 years. I ran about half of those runs. I am a former Foundry student, which is where I was introduced to the run. I strongly believe in “All Life Is Sacred.” I enjoy singing a few songs on the big drum from time to time, and I encourage all runners and supp
Greetings, my name is Gene. I’ve been involved with the 500 Mile Run for about 30 years. I ran about half of those runs. I am a former Foundry student, which is where I was introduced to the run. I strongly believe in “All Life Is Sacred.” I enjoy singing a few songs on the big drum from time to time, and I encourage all runners and support to learn some songs - it’s powerful and healing. I’ve been a captain for around 4 years now and I carry the big drum for the team. I’m a big believer in laughter as medicine. Let’s laugh together. Let’s walk together. Let’s sing together. Let’s learn together. Let’s fight together. Let’s stand our ground together. Let’s run, or walk, down the road together…
TEAM CAPTAINS
Jorge Sosa – Run Team Captain
Jessica Joson – Run Team Captain
Jessica Joson – Run Team Captain
Ever since I can remember, I have always been a runner. My earliest memories of running take me back as far as being a child in elementary school, winning the yearly turkey trot. However, my running experience dramatically changed when I attended Sunrise Middle School in East San Jose. There, I joined the school’s spirit running team led
Ever since I can remember, I have always been a runner. My earliest memories of running take me back as far as being a child in elementary school, winning the yearly turkey trot. However, my running experience dramatically changed when I attended Sunrise Middle School in East San Jose. There, I joined the school’s spirit running team led by my teacher/mentor, Laxman, and the school’s director, Teresa. On this team, I learned deeply about the essence of spirit running, which introduced me to running in prayer, such as for others and Mother Earth. Laxman would invite the team members to attend the monthly 500 Mile Spiritual Running Team training events. I became even more intrigued by the run when team captain Kermit visited the school to talk to us about how beneficial it would be for us to experience something like the 500. I had a gut feeling this was something I needed to try and experience for myself, so I attended my first event at 11 years old. As the years went by, I met so many people from all different walks of life and religions, but most impactfully, a deep relationship began with Kermit. After meeting Kermit, my running experience took a dramatic turn. He took me under his wing, and I quickly learned I had a gift for running long distances. He took other youths like myself on trail runs. I began running trail half marathons, took the leap to marathons, and ran 50K races and ultras at 12. For a big part of my adolescence and teenage years, I ran many ultra-distance races and even ran with the Tarahumaras in Chihuahua, Mexico. It wasn’t until a year ago that I was honored to be chosen to become a captain of the 500 Mile Team, which is one of the most beautiful blessings of my life. Taking on this position came with a powerful transition from simply being a spirit runner to taking on
responsibility for an entire team and movement. Although I am very young, with my abundant running experience and being with the team for nine years, I can help mentor and train team members to reach their running goals and guide them to become stronger spirit runners. It is my responsibility and calling to keep this run and the message “All Life Is Sacred” going since it is now more important than ever. I want to thank my ancestors and those who came before me who paved the way for me to blossom into the person I am today. All my relations.
Jessica Joson – Run Team Captain
Jessica Joson – Run Team Captain
Jessica Joson – Run Team Captain
I run because I am able to. Because I know some day, this body won’t. Through the family businesses of elderly care homes and a group home for adults with disabilities, I understand the range of abilities, including its loss as well as the creativity of how to do things differently. I don’t just run for those who cannot. I run because I
I run because I am able to. Because I know some day, this body won’t. Through the family businesses of elderly care homes and a group home for adults with disabilities, I understand the range of abilities, including its loss as well as the creativity of how to do things differently. I don’t just run for those who cannot. I run because I have the opportunity to run, and it would be a disrespect to not honor that ability, for those who cannot. I am not a fast runner and only started in my early 40’s so I creatively adapted my running style and training. I couldn’t even run a track lap when timing a baseline mile, but have since moved on to obstacle course running, tactical endurance events, and 50Ks with and without obstacles. Shortly after, I discovered prayer runs and found the 500 Mile California American Indian Team. I run because as a first generation California born immigrant, I am well familiar with the expectation of being a “good guest.” What better way to live that reverence for the indigenous lands and people than through the spirit of Native American running? I run with the 500 Mile Team because as a diaspora descendent, I know there is a responsibility when on stolen lands. Lastly, I run as a team captain, as a running prayer of that responsibility, for a greater purpose of bringing people together in community.
Carlos Lopez – Run Team Captain
Jessica Joson – Run Team Captain
Carlos Lopez – Run Team Captain
My passion for running began when I started attending some of the 500 Mile training events in 2003. I remember my first run from downtown San Jose to Evergreen Valley College with the team. My passion for running grew when I started running longer distances. My love of the outdoors led me to complete many ultramarathons and a 100-mile ru
My passion for running began when I started attending some of the 500 Mile training events in 2003. I remember my first run from downtown San Jose to Evergreen Valley College with the team. My passion for running grew when I started running longer distances. My love of the outdoors led me to complete many ultramarathons and a 100-mile run. I could not have accomplished this without community and that’s exactly what the 500 Mile team is all about. Running with the 500 Mile team is an honor just a few experience in life. I became a spirit runner first and later was asked to be a captain. Being a spirit runner is not a given but comes with responsibility. It requires faith and being trustworthy - to the point that people know I will be there in the circle and do what’s best for the team. One of my roles as a teammate is documenting the runs through photos and I’m also responsible for putting the word out by maintaining the 500 Mile website. Running with purpose and for others is what keeps me going. I believe in connection with the land, the
water and the living creatures around me. Running and training with the Tarahumaras, the Hopis and the Pit River Nation in all weather conditions gives a lot of meaning to my running efforts and that’s what keeps me alive. In running and in life endurance is the key to continue going strong.