Amanda Basham is a professional trail runner with a Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon State University. Originally an Oregonian, she now lives and trains in Boulder, CO and has a background coaching endurance athletes in everything from 5k - 200 miles.
Amanda’s run origin story began running in high school and then collegiately for a couple years. That experience led her to try a few road marathons. It wasn’t until 2014 that she discovered trail running after an injury from pounding the pavement and was instantly hooked. As an innately competitive person, Amanda wasn’t satisfied until she was pursuing the goal of becoming an elite trail runner. In 2015, she toed the start line of the 50 mile USATF Trail Championships, her first as a professional runner, and took the top step. That win kicked off world travels as she endeavored to take on many of the top ultra races globally, including Western States 100, UTMB, CCC, Tarawera and Ultra Trail Capetown.
Photo credit: Howie Stern @howiesternphoto
Trail running fortuitously brought her a chance meeting and connection with her now partner, Justin Grunewald, at the 2020 Bandera 100k. They now live the trail running lifestyle alongside their two daughters who have already been immersed in the sport. Both Amanda and Justin believe that training and racing with kids adds a few challenges, but all of it means so much more with them.
Photo credit: Mike McMonagle @shitinthewoods
Amanda has a platform in the sport inspiring others, especially those who endeavor to become mothers or are already mothers to continue to pursue their passions. She envisions a world where athlete parents feel supported and know they can still chase their dreams and goals while having a family.
Photo Credit: Kevin Lara @kevinlaraphoto
We are honored to have Amanda join the Paradis Pro team and will be cheering on as she ambitiously takes on her ultra trail run goals in the 2024 season.
