RainShadow Running’s Orcas Island 50k is 2.1.14
(Jodee holds the course record.)
Jodee, Thanks for being part of our newly formed Team 7hills. I know you are a new member of the Scott running team as well. What do you think of the Scott shoes so far?
Prior to my Scott sponsorship I hadn’t known much about the company or the shoes. I have to say I was slightly skeptical about how much I would like them. Up until that point I had dabbled around with a few brands but had’t really loved any of the shoes all that much.
I am happy to say the Kinabalu is my favorite trail shoe I’ve run in. It fits my foot well–not much sliding around, and the amount of cushion for the weight is a wonderful treat. And there’s just enough room in the toe box for my little pinkie toe to be happy. It makes such a difference not having to think about a poorly fitting shoe in the middle of a beautiful trail run.
Orcas Island 50k is next up for you. It sounds like you’ll be wearing the Kinabalu?
I have thoroughly broken in my newest pair of the Kinabalu’s while exploring the valleys and volcanic ridges here on Oahu. I will be delightfully racing in them at Orcas.
Wow, you are in Hawaii on vacation?!? Are you tapering at all for Orcas?
I’ve been in Hawaii for about a week and have put in several longer runs (2 hrs) in the Manoa Valley, but in the last week leading up to the race I’ll taper. I may even test out my rusty surfing skills today. I have a testy “runner’s knee” that keeps me vigilant about not overdoing my training.
Our RainShadow Running Pearl Izumi Pick ’em contest is in full swing. Everyone is picking you to win! How do you handle that pressure?
I’m not too concerned about predictions. I will run to the best of my abilities and if that entails a win, well then: YIPPEEE!!
Do you try to set records when you run, or does it just happen?
I just try to run smoothly, calmly, and greatfully over the given course and hopefully not “hit a wall;” that is the focus more than breaking records.
Running through a red desert landscape has been a desire of mine for quite sometime–a desert calling I suppose. Last July I had the pleasure of driving out to Colorado for a few weeks, hiking in the high mountains then racing the Speed Goat 50k in Salt Lake City. It’s a joy to start experiencing trails outside of Washington through races.
What are your other big 2014 races?
This year I plan on running a few 50 milers: Lake Sonoma and White River, and if I’m lucky Transvulcania. I ‘m stoked to head back to RainShadow Running’s Angels Staircase as well.
You work with another team member, Heather Anderson. Do you ever run together or talk about training at work?
Heather and I cashier at the Skagit Food Co Op and don’t talk about running too often. I am in awe of the distances she has covered.
I pretty much only run with my dog Pablo. I run hard but not as long as some of the ultra people in the area. In preparation for the 50 milers, I hope to start hooking up with Heather and the likes and get a few tips too.
One of your college teammates, Rose Wetzel Sinnett, just joined team 7hills too! Who would win in a trail half marathon?
Rose is rad! We’ve been friends ever since our Georgetown days. I think I would win in a trail half, but if Rose started running lots of longer hillier runs, I’d be scared… Girls’ got some serious speed.
Your other passion is pottery. How long have you done that?
I’ve been potting for about six years now. I have a wheel and a kiln in the basement where I live. It’s a very nice way to spend time and spread my art.