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Sachin Latti, an ultra-endurance athlete running 60 km daily across Canada to raise awareness for mental health, especially for first responders, veterans, and youth, may become the first person of color to run across Canada.
Latti’s participation in the Airdrie parade on July 1 was a significant moment in his cross-country journey, made possible through a connection with Councillor Tina Petrow, whom he met a year ago and reconnected with upon arriving in Calgary. Petrow facilitated the opportunity for Latti and his team to join the Canada Day celebrations.
“It was amazing to see the people of Airdrie cheering and enjoying our nation’s birth together,” Latti said, reflecting on the community’s warm support.
His presence at the parade was not just about celebrating Canada Day but reinforcing the mission behind his run: to create meaningful connections and raise awareness about mental health.
Running Into Communities
Latti’s ultra-endurance campaign has evolved to better engage with communities. Initially planning to run 100 km daily, Latti realized that slowing down to spend time in each community was essential to build deeper connections.
“We started noticing how people in the communities were responding, and we realized we needed to engage more deeply,” he said. “We’re not just running through towns—we’re running [in]to them, meeting people where they are.”
This approach has been a recent strategic shift for Latti and his team. Instead of passing through towns quickly, they are now staying in each community for two to three days to foster deeper engagement. This allows them to connect with more people and create space for those with mental health struggles to share their stories.
“Rather than running through the towns, we’re running to towns, staying a couple of days, and engaging with the community while I’m running those 50 to 70 kilometres a day.”
Latti’s ultra-endurance run is far more than just physical stamina; it’s a personal mission fueled by his own mental health struggles. After 18 years with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Latti faced his own battles with mental health during a divorce and the pandemic, leading to a major depressive episode. He turned to running as part of his healing process, eventually discovering how it could also serve as a platform to help others.
The Catalyst: Running for Purpose
Latti’s transformation from a bodybuilder and Brazilian jiu-jitsu athlete into an ultra-endurance runner wasn’t about becoming a runner—it was about finding a way to serve others.
“I’m still not a runner, and I’ve never been a runner. I’m a purpose-driven person. So for me, it’s all been about purpose and trying to find a way to serve others in a way that I feel I can best serve.”
His run across Canada, which involves running 60 km a day for over 75 days, is about raising awareness for mental health issues affecting veterans, first responders, and youth.
“Every step is for them. Every conversation, a reminder: no one should face mental health alone,” Latti said.
Latti acknowledges that the mental health challenges faced by law enforcement and first responders often go unspoken, adding to the stigma and struggle.
“It’s still somewhat of a stigma,” Latti said. "If you’re expressing issues with your mental health verbally, there’s a fear of perhaps having your tools removed, or being sidelined."
While Latti didn’t experience the same hesitation, he recognizes how the mental health stigma remains a significant barrier.
Representing the South Asian Community
Latti’s run also represents a milestone in breaking barriers for people of colour in ultra-endurance sports. He is the first person of colour to run across Canada, and while he sees this as an important milestone, his focus remains on raising awareness and encouraging others to speak openly about mental health.
“I think it’s important for my community to know it’s okay to speak about mental health,” he said. "If I can break a few glass ceilings, then that’s a success."
Physical and Mental Challenges of Ultra-Endurance Running
Latti continues to push the boundaries of mental and physical endurance, running 50 to 70 km each day. His journey challenges him, not just physically but mentally as well. He reflects on how his commitment to others helps him stay motivated, even when faced with the physical strain of his ultra-marathon.
“It’s not mind over matter, it’s thinking of others, their struggles...and how I can push even further to serve them.”
Looking Ahead: Next Stops on the Journey
After completing his run through Calgary, Latti plans to continue through major cities including Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, and Ottawa before finishing in Newfoundland by September 6. This continuing journey is as much about physical endurance as it is about connecting with communities to share the message of mental health awareness.
“We’re in the Calgary area until July 4, then we’re going to move on. I’ll run to the next town over and then continuously do that.”
For those who want to support Latti’s mission, donations can be made directly to the Sach-in-Motion Fund, which supports mental health initiatives for veterans, first responders, and youth. Even if donations aren’t possible, Latti encourages people to follow and share his journey on social media.
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