Amanda is a professional runner living in Boulder, Colorado with her partner, Justin Grunewald, and their daughter, Rylan Grunewald. She’s been running ultras for six years and really enjoys the 100k and 100-mile distances. Amanda is now adjusting to life and training as a new mom.
Accomplishments:
- 4th at Western States 100 in 2016 & 2018
- 2nd at CCC 100k in 2019
How fast do you think you could run a backwards mile?
What is one of your most memorable non-competition runs?
Running the Kalaulau Trail with my partner & teammate, Justin Grunewald, and setting the FKT. We also went there a few days later for him to set the men’s FKT.
If you had to pick one race or event this year that you anticipate will be your most proud achievement or moment, which one would it be and why? Do you have a special connection?
I anticipate CCC 100k being my most proud achievement. It was my best performance so far in my running career and shortly before I got pregnant. I want to come back this year and win it.
What is your favorite event to watch that you don’t participate in?
Honestly, I don’t watch many sports besides running. Does watching Workin' Moms on Netflix count? 😜
Do you have any quirky running habits?
Not really. I’m not a superstitious person.
WOULD YOU RATHER:
Eat a slice of pizza mid-race or drink a milkshake?
Pizza.
Run on an empty stomach or a full bladder?
Empty stomach.
Do a beer mile or a milk mile?
Beer.
Run in the freezing cold or the sweltering heat?
Heat.
Be met at the finish line with your favorite beverage or favorite meal?
Beverage - nitro cold brew coffee.
Come across a snake or a rat on your run?
Rat.
Run with a blister on your foot or a cramp in your side?
Oof, both are awful but I think blister.
Give up core work or stretching and still stay injury-free?
Stretching.
Run uphill in the first half of your run or the second?
First.