Katie Schide and Heather Jackson | 2024 Western States 100 Pre-Race Interviews
Jun 27, 2024
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Elite ultrarunners Katie Schide and Heather Jackson chat about preparing for the Western States 100 race, strategies for race day, ultrarunner mindset, and play a fun game of Kiss, Marry, Kill with carb intake, heat management, and super shoes. They also discuss Heather Jackson's race preparation and strategy, selecting pacers, and share a humorous exchange before wishing good luck for an upcoming race.
Balancing running and cycling training for race preparation.
Importance of competent crew selection for race support and pacing.
Strategic focus on key races and exploring new challenges in the future.
Deep dives
Focused Training and Consistent Preparation
Heather maintained a consistent training regimen, balancing both running and cycling to prepare for races like Unbound and Western States. The micro block approach helped her engage in focused and structured training sessions to enhance her running performance.
Crew Support and Pacers Selection
Heather selected a competent crew, including Chelsea, Collier, and Paula, experienced runners with varying backgrounds, for Western States to provide support and pacing during the race. The crew members bring a mix of speed and positive vibes to aid Heather during critical stages of the race.
Setting Goals Beyond Western States
Heather's ambitions extend beyond Western States, with a desire to explore races like UTMB and even potentially the Cocodona race in the future. Her strategic approach includes focusing on key races while incorporating a mix of training blocks to improve performance and tackle new challenges.
Race Day Preparation and Mentality
Heather aims to maintain a positive mindset and strategic race approach, leveraging lessons from past races like Black Canyon to navigate challenges and performance fluctuations during events. She plans to balance competitive drive with adaptability on race day to maximize her performance.
Supportive Community and Race Day Dynamics
Heather emphasizes the importance of crew support and pacer selection, with a goal to not only perform well but also create lasting memories and experiences in iconic races like Western States. The collaborative and supportive environment among runners, crew, and pacers play a vital role in Heather's race day preparations and performance.
Katie Schide and Heather Jackson stop by the Singletrack studio in Olympic Valley, CA ahead of the 2024 Western States 100 to chat it up about the race, the sport at large, and life in general. Thanks to both of these guys! Special thanks to Brooks, the presenting sponsor of this week's race coverage.