Liit, a special dog on wheels, steals hearts at EastWest Dream Run Manila

At the final leg of the EastWest Dream Run 2025, more than 6,000 runners took to the streets of Filinvest City in Alabang to chase fitness goals and personal records. But one of the most unforgettable stories was about heart. And it came on four wheels: Liit, a French Bulldog with a huge spirit.

Her name literally means “small,” but there’s nothing little about the courage she brought to the sold-out 1K Dog Category at the Dream Run’s Manila leg. Rolling beside her proud fur parent, Liit showed the world that dreams come in all sizes.

Liit is a PWD or Pet With Disability who lost the use of her hind legs and now moves with the help of a custom wheelchair. But what she may lack in mobility, she makes up for in joy, energy,and inspiration. With her wheels spinning and tail wagging, Liit surely lit up the route.

“Liit may be small, but her dreams are anything but,” said her owner, who has four other Frenchies. “Liit holds a special place in my heart. Just because she’s a PWD dog doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy the things other dogs do, like running freely and being part of something fun. Joining the EastWest Dream Run is our way of celebrating her fighting spirit and reminding everyone that you’re never too small or too different to chase after what you want.”

Cheered on by fellow runners and spectators alike, Liit became an instant crowd favorite. Her presence on the track reminded everyone that this event goes beyond medals and milestones. It’s about showing up, pushing forward, and doing it with love.

Held in celebration of EastWest’s 30th anniversary and the Filinvest Group’s 70th year, the Dream Run brought together people and pets from across the country to celebrate health, hope and connection. With race categories for all ages and experience levels, including kids and dogs, the event became a vibrant display of inclusivity and shared spirit.

From the 30KM Dream Challenge to the 1K Dog Run, each category brought its own stories of strength. But few left as lasting a mark as Liit’s. Liit may not have reached the finish line, but on her tiny wheels, she reminded everyone that courage isn’t about crossing first — or at all. It’s about showing up, moving forward and daring to try. That day, she rolled with something greater than strength. She owned the moment.