On Memorial Day, Alamosa‘s Brittni Hutton won the BolderBoulder 10k citizen’s race, in a time that would’ve ranked very well in the professional, elite race. Brittni answers a few questions about that race, Alamosa, and is our May “The Runner Box” runner of the month.
Brittni, congrats on the win! 34:32 for first at the BolderBoulder 10k citizen’s race. That time would’ve been good for seventh female in the elite race, and as second American. I don’t want to sound like a negative Nancy on the BolderBoulder elite race, but this happens every year and always baffles me. Citizens run faster than the elites and I think it kind of undermines the elite race, especially now that both races are run on the same course. Not that I’m faulting you for running fast, but I just don’t get it. The elite race is later in the day, but it was a cool day so that shouldn’t have been a factor. Are you surprised how fast you ran relative to those in the elite race then? Would you have rather been in the elite race for the female competition and opportunities for prize money?
I certainly am surprised! This is a huge confidence boost for me and I feel like a little bit of weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I am not upset for not being in the elite race. Sure, the competition and money would have been motivational, but I did have plenty of competition in the citizens race… guys do not like so see a girl passing them! Every athlete in the elite race deserved to be there and I’m extremely grateful to know the majority of the ladies that were in that elite race. They are part of the reason why I love running. They continue to inspire me to be faster, be humble, and be the best I can be.
The Denver Post BolderBoulder article said that you had a coach in Texas. I know you used to train with the American Distance Project in Colorado Springs, so how’d you end up with a coach in Texas?
I train under Quent Bearden and represent his group, Ultimate Endurance. He’s amazing. I met Quent through my boyfriend, Brandon Birdsong. Brandon and I both train under Quent. I love his philosophies on running, and outlook on life outside of running. He puts things together and listens so well it makes training enjoyable, and fun – which is the way it should be. I look forward to every day and for what the future holds.
Sure the McMillan Running calculator is only an estimation, but your 34:32 10k equates to a 2:42 marathon. Any plans to chase an Olympic trials qualifying time? What else do you have coming up?
I don’t think it would hurt to race a half marathon in the future, just for fun, and see what could potentially happen. The last thing I want to sound like is cocky, but I think I could come very close to or hit the half-marathon standard. What’s next in my future is some solid training. I am little stuck with where I can race next because it’s really hard to travel due to expenses, but I desperately want to race on the track, and look forward to when I can.
What’s life like in Alamosa? The San Luis Brewing Company is my go-to restaurant there, but otherwise I just think of the sand dunes, the alligator farm, and the UFO watchtower. There’s got to be a community behind these tourist stops though?
I love Alamosa. It’s simple, creative and a warm community. It’s a bit far from some of our close friends and family, but it is a great place to live. The Brewery is one of my favorite places to go as well! I have been able to be really involved with the community of Alamosa through my running and two jobs. Brandon and I both work for the Adams State University Masters of Counseling Education Online program as Administrative Assistants and I also work for Milagros Coffee House, which is a non-profit organization. Running in Alamosa, working for Adams State University and working for Milagros has been a blessing. I have been able to meet so many runners, students, and people. What’s more, is that I have created an awesome network. Brandon and I both really enjoy all the people we’ve become so close with living here.
What’s your favorite item in The Runner Box?
This entire box is incredible! I cannot tell you how excited I am to try all these products and how awesome it is that RunnerBox exists. So, my favorite thing about the box, is the box itself. It’s a top to bottom list of products that I need; great snacks, electrolytes, body cream, chap stick and a towel that keeps me cool while I’m running, sweet! Thank you RunnerBox, this is one of the greatest things a runner could ask for!
“Leave the research to us, and we’ll leave the training to you,” says Runner Box. The Runner Box is a subscription-based service that delivers a “box” of runner-friendly goodies to you every other month, items like gels, bars, and other accessories hand-picked to add to your running. Many items are new to the market, and new items are expected with each box. A great service for yourself, the boxes also make great gifts and are often themed around holidays.