A Day in the Life of Amanda Basham: Trail Running Motherhood
In the breathtaking hills overlooking Boulder, Colorado, Amanda Basham opens her door, but she’s not the first to greet visitors. Her youngest daughter, Maeve, ushers everyone in with exuberance, accompanied by the family’s new puppy, Luna. The scene captures the essence of Amanda’s life: a blend of professional trail running and the joyous chaos of parenthood. As a sponsored athlete for Altra and a mother of two, Amanda’s approach to combining career and family is anything but traditional.
Balancing Family and Running
On a Thursday morning in mid-August, Amanda’s focus is on her training as she prepares for the prestigious CCC race in the Alps, a competition in which she secured second place in 2019. Having undergone significant life changes since then, including motherhood, Amanda faces the challenge of incorporating her passion for running into her family life. While other elite runners travel to Europe well in advance to train, Amanda chooses to stay home longer with her daughters, knowing that her experience in the sport allows her to take a more flexible approach.
Training Regimen and Daily Routine
As Amanda cooks breakfast, her kitchen fills with an energizing scent—bacon is sizzling on the stove. The morning hustle is a reflection of her life post-pregnancy, where each day is an exercise in balance. Amanda prepares for a two-hour run on her schedule but first engages in self-care, including a strength training session at home with her girls joining in. Her unique home gym is filled with both her Altra gear and toys, creating a dynamic environment where exercise and play coexist seamlessly.
Lessons in Resilience and Commitment
Amanda’s return to racing involved navigating the demands of motherhood. After each pregnancy, she came back stronger and more determined, achieving remarkable milestones like winning the Broke Arrow Triple Crown. Yet, she emphasizes that the path hasn’t been easy. The daily noise of “Mom!” being called over a hundred times before breakfast significantly alters her training structure, requiring her to adapt and overcome cultural expectations surrounding elite athletes.
The Impact of Sponsorship
As an athlete rooted deeply in Altra’s values, Amanda reflects on how her partnership with the brand has evolved. Initially joining their team in 2017 when Altra was still establishing its name, she recognizes the company’s steadfast commitment to valuing athletes beyond mere podium finishes. With the path she’s charting as an athlete and a mother, Amanda’s relationship with Altra gives her peace of mind about navigating her dual roles.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 CCC Race
With the 2025 CCC just around the corner, Amanda is not focused solely on her finish time or position; instead, she desires to perform with confidence and joy. Her objective is to engage fully in the race, reflecting on her personal growth and racing against the inner narrative that has emerged since becoming a parent. As she gears up for this prestigious event, she emphasizes, “It’s crucial to run with joy, regardless of how competitive the atmosphere is.”
Final Thoughts
Amanda Basham exemplifies the relentless progression of balancing life as an elite athlete with family commitments. As she prepares for the upcoming CCC, she illustrates that motherhood, while challenging, does not have to detract from professional aspirations. Amanda’s journey is a crucial reminder of the strength found in nurturing both passions and responsibilities.
