Nado con Causa Casa Colibrí

Francisco Ayala, a pivotal figure in the Mexican struggle for sovereignty, once moved through the lands of Tlaltizapán while battling the hardships of both colonial forces and malaria. Captured at the Temilpa ranch, his legacy remains etched into the local geography, where the ruins of the site where he was seized serve as a silent witness to the history of these waters. Today, the same landscape that witnessed these struggles draws participants to the annual Nado con Causa Casa Colibrí, a gathering held in the spring-fed waters of Las Estacas.

As you prepare for the event on August 22, 2026, the surroundings reveal the geological narrative of the region. The very name of the town, Tlaltizapán, originates from the Nahuatl terms for 'land' and 'white powder,' referencing the prominent white hill that defines the local topography—a formation you can observe as you approach the water. The river environment itself is shaped by a constant flow of thousands of liters per second, a natural phenomenon that has persisted for millennia. While local legends of traditional healers once dominated the banks, today the water serves as a vital resource, historically linked to unique culinary traditions such as the 'tamal de bagre,' reflecting the deep connection between the river and the community’s sustenance.

## Race Day Logistics

The event offers two distinct challenges, each interacting differently with the river's character. The 750m course is designed as a recreational swim moving with the current, while the 1km distance requires a steady effort against the flow. With a participant cap of 250, the atmosphere remains focused and personal. The registration fee of 955 MXN is structured to include park entry and a commemorative cap, with a significant portion allocated to support the pediatric palliative care provided by Casa Colibrí. Whether you are navigating the current for the longer challenge or enjoying the flow during the shorter distance, the connection to the history and ecology of Tlaltizapán remains central to the swim.