Amy Pajcic might not be a name you think about when you think about Obstacle Racing but she is a silent competitor in all the races she competes in and always with a smile on her face. This 24-year old Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine student spends most of her time in the classroom but when she’s not she is tackling races like World’s Toughest Mudder and prepping for the OCR World Championships. Learn a little more about Amy and her love of running, rock climbing and OCR.

How did you get involved in your sport?

My dad coached the local church cross country team and got me started.

Were you always an athlete?

Yes! I played all sorts of sports with my little brother in the back yard long before competing on teams

What are some of your athletic achievements?

3^rd in WTM 2013, finished a 100 mi ultra marathon, 2nd for age group in an Ironman triathlon, competed in American Ninja Warriors 2014

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

I want to get over 80 miles at WTM this year, qualify for vegas in American ninja warriors next year, and be more competitive in obstacle course racing overall

Who is/are your inspiration?

My dad is my biggest inspiration. When I was younger, I always ran with him, and dreamed that someday I could keep up with him, or be as great as he was/is. He has come to many of my races across many states to watch me run. One of my most memorable races was the iron man because I was able to cross the finish line with my dad.

What is your most proud moment in sport?

It is very difficult to pick a single proudest moment, but I would have to say it was 3^rd in the WTM. It was really a turning point for me. Being able to compete alongside so many world class racers gave me the confidence boost I needed to get to where I am today.

What is your most proud moment in life?

My proudest moment in life will change one I graduate vet school next may, but my current proudest moment is getting into vet school.

How do you overcome a bad race or training day?

A good long run fixes anything. I just run and think, it’s very mentally refreshing.

What is your training routine like?

I usually run 5-6 days a week, the distance varies based on what sort of races I have coming up. I lift 3 times a week work out with the USMC officer candidates a couple times a week, and try to climb twice a week.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in your sport?

Everyone has to start somewhere, don’t compare yourself to others. It’s really about racing yourself. Try to beat your best time, try to hold a faster pace, conquer obstacles smoother or faster. You will gain far more from racing yourself than worrying about what everyone else is doing.

What is your favorite pre-race and post-race food?

Pre race I always have 2 bagels. Post race, anything with meat and/ or cheese.

When not training and competing what do you do with your down time?

Most of my time is occupied by school, but I enjoy painting, horseback riding, and playing with my dogs as well.

What is your favorite quote to motivate you?

“Every morning in Africa, A gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or be eaten. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest gazelle or starve. It doesn’t matter whether you are the lion or the gazelle, when the sun comes up, you had better be running” Anonymous

What is the best advice a coach ever gave you?

“There is someone out there who is training when you are not. When you race him/her, he/she will win.”

If you could share some advice to the next generation of athletes, what would it be? 

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything because you’re too short, or because you’re a girl, or for any reason. If you work hard at it, you can do it, no excuses, no regrets.

What is/are the races you are most looking forward to this year? I am really excited to race on the Obstacle Racing Media’s team at the OCR World championship, and of course the World’s Toughest Mudder.

Any additional information you would like to share:

Smile, life is easier that way