Not Fast. Still a Runner.

/November 11, 2026

There are people who think running only counts if you’re fast. Jamie Hutchison isn’t one of them, and quite frankly, that’s a refreshing way to approach a sport obsessed with finish times.

After losing her father in 2024, Jamie started running to escape life’s stress and discovered something much bigger. Finding community through running gave her confidence, friendships, and the realization that she could accomplish things she’d never imagined.

Today, the Indianapolis trail runner and wildlife veterinary nurse is tackling ultramarathons, rescuing injured wildlife, and proving that you don’t have to fit anyone else’s definition of an athlete. Her philosophy? “Forward is a pace.” And if that means walking, drinking Coca-Cola halfway through a race, or celebrating with sushi afterward, so be it.

That’s the kind of runner we love celebrating at Odd Duck Running Co.

Odd Duck Running Co. Athlete Spotlight Questionnaire

The Basics

Name: Jamie Hutchison.
Hometown / Where you are currently running: I’m from Martinsville, Indiana, but I’ve been in Indianapolis for the last 6 years.
Occupation or side hustle: I am an exotics/ wildlife veterinary nurse! I care for all kinds of exotic animals and native wildlife.

Your Running Story

How did you get into running? I got into running in February 2024, shortly after my dad passed away. It helped me disconnect from life stressors and get active as I turned 30.

What keeps you coming back to it? What keeps me coming back is the community and seeing just how far I can go. I honestly view running as a testament to the human spirit. And I’ve met so many incredible people I otherwise wouldn’t have.

The “Odd Duck” Section

What makes you a little different as a runner? I am different as a runner because I don’t fit the image the general public may have of athletes. I’m not “fast,” and I’m perfectly fine with that 🙂 I really just love being out in nature and being on trails.
A quirky habit, superstition, or pre-race ritual: We usually go and get sushi the night before any race and also after the race. Rice a carb, right?
Favorite weird or unexpected running snack: Coca-Cola is actually a miracle for races. Any time I’m feeling a little low, I drink some Coke and feel fantastic.

Life Beyond the Miles

What does running give you outside of fitness?: Running gives me such a sense of accomplishment. I’ve done more as an adult than I ever could have dreamed of. Fitness is not the focus at all now.
How has running changed you as a person? Running has changed me in that it’s taught me that anything is possible with enough grit and determination. It’s made me more confident in myself in all aspects of my life.
Something you’re proud of that has nothing to do with running. One of my biggest non-running accomplishments (even though it’s slightly running-related) is rescuing an injured red-tailed hawk on the NPT. I got to see her be released after treatment and also assist in her treatment. Overall, just helping wildlife is what gives me purpose.

Community & Connection

How has the running community impacted you? The running community has given me so much genuine love and support and pushed me to go farther 🙂 Also so many medals that make cool home decor.
Advice for someone just starting out. My advice for someone just starting out is it’s going to feel really hard, and there will be days where you do not want to run. That feeling eventually passes or is replaced by the love of running. My advice is always “just give it a shot, and if you don’t like it, that’s okay.”
Shoutout to someone who’s inspired you. Obviously, Pedro has been my biggest supporter and fan :). Everyone in FRC, Timmy, Alex from Ketchup to Cancer, and my friend Sophie Trowbridge

Looking Ahead

Current goals (races, adventures, or personal growth): My current goals are finishing school (I’m getting my 3rd degree in wildlife conservation), running the Taco Bell 50k, and hopefully doing my first 100k by the end of the year.
A dream race or challenge: My dream race is the Manitou Incline in Colorado!! I’m a glutton for elevation punishment.
What “success” in running looks like to you right now: Success to me looks like finishing my first 50k(which I did at Hustle ) and continuing to love what I do!

Last but not least

A mantra, phrase, or mindset you lean on: My favorite mantra is “forward is a pace”. Walking is valid. Just keep moving!

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