We caught up with ambassador Amanda Sullivan, and Skinny Skis team member Jamee Cochary after their completion of the Scout Mountain Ultras in Pocatello, ID (June 1st). The Scout Mountain Ultras are a series of 100mi, 50mi and 21mi races. Amanda completed the 50mi race, with a whopping 10,900 feet of elevation gain. Jamee completed the 21mile race, entailing 5,400 feet of elevation gain.
Both of them have given us their perspectives on key aspects of training, some essential equipment, and their favorite parts of the race. Read below for the details.
Amanda Sullivan
- What has been a key aspect to training for the event?
“This year, the key to my training has been focusing on becoming an efficient hiker! It sounds silly, but it’s something I’ve found a lot of trail runners struggle with. We just want to power uphill and just end up wasting energy. So, that’s what I spent a lot of my spring doing, hiking up hills. I think the first big change I made was to make every step have purpose and power. Not to just lolly gag up and give in to fatigue. I started using my whole body more, paying attention to how much I was slouching over. Second, was to just slow down a little on training runs. To actually pay attention to what didn’t feel right and then fix it! And it paid off BIG TIME, especially hiking in the snow on the course.”
- What gear item would you consider an essential (you can pick one, I’m sure there were more)
“Because this was such a wet race this year with mud, snow and streams. I was SO happy to have my Altra Loan Peak 4’s and Smartwool socks! I came out of the race BLISTER FREE!”
- Favorite part of the race, and hardest part of the race?
“ Okay, it’s going to sounds crazy! But the snow on top of Scout! Coming down you could just open up and catch some serious speed! And the volunteer support was absolutely amazing. They have something pretty special with that race.”
Congrats to Amanda for finishing the 50mi in 1st place!!!
Jamee Cochary
- What was a key aspect to training for the event?
“After a busy travel schedule that included going back east a couple of times this spring, I was just lucky to get in a few hilly runs. I went into the race knowing I might have some difficulties, but just wanted to enjoy this beautiful course.”
- What gear item would you consider an “essential” (You can just pick 1, I’m sure there were more!)
“My Hoka Speedgoat sneakers were great for the terrain and snow. They provided plenty of traction and cushioning.”
- Favorite part of the race, and hardest part of the race!
“The pierogies at the aid station were a nice surprise! The snow wasn’t a surprise, just another challenge.”
See all the results here.
Both race completions were very impressive, and well deserved! Make sure to follow our Instagram page to stay informed on the adventures of the Skinny Skis staff and ambassadors.