Winnipegger runs marathons barefoot for a cause

With a fit body and a big heart for helping others, barefoot runner Norman Garcia gears up to once again run for a cause in a series of marathons scheduled this year.

Norman is a triathlete and the first Filipino known to finish the Manitoba Marathon barefooted. In 2017, he successfully raised more than Php180,000 while running barefoot for the World Vision charity. The proceeds went toward building a community learning hub for children in Antique, Philippines.

This year, Norman is competing in four different races in Canada: the Winnipeg Police Service’s Half-marathon (21K) this past May 6, the Manitoba Marathon (42K) on June 17, the Hecla Long Distance Triathlon (2K swim, 90K bike, 21K run) on July 21, and the Winnipeg 10&10 (30K) on September 9. His goal is to provide 160 children with new school supplies.

“I run barefoot so they don’t have to,” explained Norman, who started to run barefoot after being inspired by minimalism or the “art of living with less.”

In turn, Norman’s unique way of running and lending a hand inspired people to support his fundraising endeavours. As a runner, he does not focus on the pain caused by running barefoot but on the joy of the children who will treasure his contributions to their education, and the children who will receive the school supplies just in time for the school year in the Philippines.

Fellow Filipinos are looking forward to Norman’s run, showing their support by sharing his advocacy to their friends and sending him the best of luck.

To support Norman’s advocacy, visit www.simplygiving.com/normangarciaforworldvision2018