Running is often seen as a solitary sport, but for Caris Estabillo-Sanchez, it is a deeply personal journey intertwined with love, resilience, and faith. From her first 5K in 2017 to completing her second marathon in 2025, Caris’ story is a testament to determination, discipline, and the power of community.
The Beginning of a Marathon Journey
Caris’ love for running began in 2017 with shorter distances—5k, 10k, and 16k races—until the ultimate goal of completing a marathon became her driving force. Despite working a demanding shift from 3 PM to midnight, managing household responsibilities, and taking care of her ailing mother, she carved out time for training. Running was not just an activity for her; it was a space for reflection, a moment of solitude where she could converse with God, reevaluate her choices, and find solace amidst life’s chaos.
Her first marathon in 2020 was deeply personal—a tribute to her father. Just forty days after crossing the finish line, she lost her mother to a heart attack. These profound losses gave her even more reason to push forward. Running became a form of healing, a reminder of resilience, and a commitment to honor her loved ones.
Overcoming Challenges: Injury, Age, and Doubt
The road to marathon success was not smooth. The pandemic disrupted her fitness routine, forcing her to stop training. She battled plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and asthma, yet remained determined. At 44, weight gain and slowed metabolism posed additional challenges, but she refused to let them define her limits. Her goal was clear—if she had done 42km at 39, she could do it again at 44.
But Caris refused to quit. She sought medical advice, incorporated therapy and strength training, and leaned on her running group, the UPDreamers, for support. For her, every setback was just another reason to push forward.
A Race Against Time: 20 Seconds to Triumph
Completing the TBR (The Bull Runner) Dream Marathon with only 20 seconds to spare was one of the most emotional moments of Caris’ life. Endurance running is unpredictable, and despite rigorous training, race day presented unexpected hurdles—an upset stomach, painful cramps, and relentless uphills. By the 34th kilometer, exhaustion and doubt crept in.
Yet, in that moment of weakness, her running community stepped in. Encouragement from fellow runners, cold water poured over her to keep her cool, and the unwavering thought of her daughter waiting at the finish line fueled her final push. As the clock counted down, she completed the race, proving to herself and others that persistence triumphs over adversity.
Balancing Life and Running: The Power of Discipline
Being a mother, a manager, and a marathon runner is no easy feat. Training required meticulous scheduling—waking up at 4 AM, squeezing in workouts before work, and ensuring discipline trumped fleeting motivation. Caris firmly believes that “Kapag gusto, may paraan. Kapag ayaw, madaming dahilan” (If you truly want something, you’ll find a way. If not, you’ll find excuses).
Her story is a powerful reminder that fitness is not just for the elite but for anyone willing to commit. She encourages women to start where they are, whether by walking, running in intervals, or simply finding time for themselves amidst their responsibilities.
Lessons from the Marathon: Strength in Community and Purpose
Caris’ running journey is deeply rooted in the relationships she has built. She found strength in the UPDreamers, a group that not only trains together but supports one another through life’s highs and lows. Their camaraderie extended beyond running, organizing charity races for children with disabilities and raising funds for a fellow member’s child battling cancer.
The ripple effect of Caris’ determination reached far beyond her expectations. A 15-second clip of her finishing the race went viral, inspiring people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Her journey became a beacon of hope, proving that running—and life—is about perseverance, not perfection.
A Testament of Faith and Determination
At its core, Caris’ story is one of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Her journey exemplifies that success isn’t about how fast you run but about showing up despite the odds. As she continues to chase bigger dreams, she remains guided by Romans 8:28—trusting that all things work together for good when done with love and purpose.
Her message to every woman hesitant to start? “It’s never too late. Age, weight, or circumstances should never define your limits. Chase your dreams, prioritize yourself, and remember—one foot over the other, just don’t stop.”
What’s Next? The Road Ahead
With two marathons under her belt, Caris now dreams of completing an international marathon, possibly one of the World Majors. But beyond personal goals, she is passionate about giving back—supporting future TBR runners and uplifting those who once doubted their own abilities.
Running has transformed Caris in ways she never imagined. It has become her sanctuary, her challenge, and her joy. Above all, it has reinforced her belief that with faith, discipline, and a supportive community, anything is possible.
For those who think they’re too old, too busy, or not fit enough to chase their dreams, Caris has one message: Start now. Progress, not perfection, will get you there. Fill your own cup, so you can continue pouring into others. Because in the end, it’s not just about finishing the race—it’s about who you become along the way.
