In Oaxaca, where economic challenges often limit access to quality sports gear, every piece of equipment makes a difference. For Diana Carolina Cinco Pérez—a 21-year-old duathlon athlete and long-distance runner from Oaxaca de Juárez—training shoes aren’t just tools, they’re necessities. Thanks to a private donation coordinated by Oax Sport and funded by a U.S.-based supporter, Diana received a new pair of ASICS NOVABLAST 5 (24.0 cm), helping her continue her demanding training with confidence and safety.
Diana is a university student and member of the Squalo Multisport Team. She competes in duathlon, athletics, and cycling, with a specialty in duathlon. Her training regimen regularly exceeds 80 kilometers per week. She recently placed 2nd overall in the 2025 National Duathlon Championship held in Villahermosa, Tabasco. This result confirms her strong form heading into international competition.
She now prepares for the Pan American Championship in Cali, Colombia, and the World Championship in Pontevedra, Spain. She competes in the Under-23 Elite category and is currently ranked 34th in the world. Her coach, Ayax Niño Cruz, closely guides her with structured, high-intensity sessions. You can follow Diana at @caroliina_cinco for updates on her journey.
“I want to sincerely thank Oax Sport and the donor for my shoes. It’s a big help that allows me to keep working toward my goals in sports. I really wear out my shoes—at least one pair every two months—because of all the mileage and intensity. They’re my main tool. I’m truly happy and grateful because this helps me get closer to my objectives.”
Diana’s athletic resume includes a 2nd place finish at the 2023 Duathlon World Championship in Ibiza, Spain, and a 4th place finish at the 2024 Pan American Championship in Cali, Colombia. She also won the state athletics title in the 800m and 1500m events in 2024. Her personal bests are 18:10 in the 5km and 38:35 in the 10km. Most recently, she won the Ricardo Villalobos Memorial Road Race—a 60 km cycling event followed by a 3 km run—demonstrating her endurance and versatility.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is a lightweight, high-cushion trainer ideal for high-mileage athletes like Diana. In the U.S., the official MSRP is $150 USD according to ASICS.
In Mexico, prices for the same model typically range between $3,199 MXN and $3,399 MXN (approximately $180–190 USD), depending on the retailer and color. For example:
- Mercado Libre lists them at around $3,199 MXN.
- Coppel shows prices up to $4,657 MXN, likely reflecting import markups.
Why the price difference? Footwear imported to Mexico is subject to 25–35% in duties and a 16% VAT (IVA). Combined with retailer markups and shipping costs, this drives up prices significantly. Overall, the same shoes can cost 30–40% more than in the U.S.
This price gap reflects a broader global imbalance: high-performance gear like the NOVABLAST 5 is priced for consumers in higher-income economies such as the U.S., Europe, or the Middle East. In contrast, even for professionals earning above-average wages in Mexico, a single pair of these shoes can represent the equivalent of a week’s income. This makes direct support programs like Oax Sport’s gear donations not only valuable—but necessary—for athletes pursuing serious training goals within local economic realities.
Joanne Phipps, Oax Sport’s Eastern USA Liaison, helps coordinate these donations. She works directly with athletes and donors to ensure resources reach those with clear goals and real need.
“I’ve been part of Oax Sport for two years, mainly working on bringing donations from the U.S. and helping with grant writing. We aim to build bridges between donors and grassroots athletes—especially young women—so they can train, compete, and grow with the confidence that they’re not alone in this journey.”
Athlete’s Dream: Abu Dhabi 2026
Looking ahead, Diana has expressed a heartfelt goal: to represent Mexico at the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships in Abu Dhabi. The event will be held on Hudayriyat Island, bringing together the world’s best duathletes and multisport athletes for one of the most prestigious international competitions.
For Diana, this opportunity is about more than competition. It’s a chance to experience a new culture, connect with athletes from around the globe, and show that women from Oaxaca can compete on the world stage. It’s a powerful symbol of resilience and hope for young athletes facing barriers.
We invite donors and sponsors to help make this vision a reality. Your contribution can help cover international travel, visa fees, competition gear, and lodging in the UAE. All monetary donations designated for Diana will be passed along at 100% value; Oax Sport does not deduct any administrative fees. Support Diana’s journey to Abu Dhabi and help her carry the spirit of Oaxaca to the global arena.
In-kind donations are also welcome, especially equipment suitable for international duathlon events. Diana currently faces challenges finding a race-ready bicycle due to her petite frame—size 47. Assistance in sourcing or lending a properly fitted bike would be deeply appreciated and directly beneficial to her competition readiness.
Diana’s new shoes were delivered as part of Oax Sport’s direct athlete support program. This donation is one of several made this season to help athletes across Oaxaca compete safely and consistently. At Oax Sport, we believe that behind every pair of donated shoes is a message: keep going, you’re seen, and you’re supported.
📸 Gallery: Training and Donation Moments
Scenes from Diana Cinco’s week of training and receiving her new running shoes in Oaxaca. These photos reflect her commitment, energy, and the support that powers her journey to international competition.
Gear Donated
About Oax Sport
Oax Sport Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Texas. We support athletes in Oaxaca, Mexico, through training assistance, competition access, and essential resources like gear and mentorship. Our support is focused on transparency, impact, and respect for local talent.
To learn more or support athletes like Diana, visit https://OaxSport.org/
Disclaimer: Oax Sport is not affiliated with ASICS, its distributors, or any commercial footwear brand. Mention of specific products is solely for the purpose of transparency in reporting donations.
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