Hi, I’m Nicol Ruperti and I’m on the verge of making history: after a decade of training, I’ll be the first woman from my province of Manabí to represent Ecuador at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona.

But this dream isn’t just mine – it belongs to every girl who’s been told “you can’t.” For every woman who never saw a place for herself in the world of sport.

But I can’t do it alone.

Why This Journey Matters

Growing up in Manabí, I didn’t see women like me in endurance sports. I found my way, but I know there are so many women who didn’t.

Triathlon gave me structure, purpose, and a deep sense of identity. It taught me that strength isn’t just physical — it’s mental, emotional, and rooted in community.

Now, I’m giving that same gift back.

Through Go Run, the free running club I founded in my hometown, I’ve helped build a movement.

What began as a few friends running together has become a diverse, intergenerational community. Every week, more and more people lace up with us — from teenage girls to grandmothers — all united by the desire to move, grow, and belong.

I’m Racing for More Than Myself

When I race, I don’t just race for me.

I race for every girl in Manabí who’s been told “you can’t.”

For every woman who never saw a place for herself in the world of sport.

For every person who just needed someone to believe in them.

If I reach Kona, I’ll be the first woman from my province to ever do it. But more than that, I want to prove that with heart, grit, and community behind you, anything is possible.

How You Can Help

Qualifying for Kona was the hardest thing I’ve ever done — and now, getting there is the next challenge. Travel, gear, entry fees, and lodging all add up. That’s why I’m asking for your support.

Your donation helps cover these costs — but it’s about much more than getting me to the starting line in Kona, it’s about what we can build together:

• We can lift up women and girls in sport

• We can build a stronger, more united community in Manabí

• We can be a living example that dreams are worth chasing

No amount is too small. Every dollar gets me one step closer. Every message fuels my spirit.

From the bottom of my heart: thank you for being part of this dream. I’ll carry your energy with me every mile, every swim stroke, every pedal turn — all the way to the finish line in Kona.

Let’s make history together.

With love and determination,

Nicol Ruperti

#ManabiEnKona #GoRun #IronmanDream