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OUR TEAM

2023 Team Profiles – Leadville Race Series

Ken Chlouber, Merilee Maupin

Race Founders

When the Climax mine closed in 1982, Leadville faced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Ken, a local leader, helped transform the community into an exceptional outdoor recreation hub by creating the Leadville Race Series. Serving as County Commissioner, State Representative, and Senator, Ken is also a 14-time finisher of the LT100 Run. He is most proud of co-founding the Leadville Trail 100 Legacy Foundation, which he views as a lasting investment in Lake County and its people.

Though “Texas born and bred,” Merilee’s heart resides in Leadville. After her Travel Agency closed in 1982 due to the economic downturn, she became the Race Director for the Leadville Trail 100 Run in 1983. She still actively participates in the races, embracing and awarding medals to each finisher. Merilee takes immense pride in co-creating the Leadville Trail 100 Legacy Foundation and believes it allows her to continuously contribute to her cherished community.

Tamira Jenlink, Event Manager

Leadville, CO

Coming from a 25+ year career in outdoor related industry, with a distinct focus on the intersection of health and movement, my greatest loves and passions are Leadville ❤️,  and any and all opportunities to support humans to not only challenge but unravel the mystery of their own limits. 

For the last 10+ years,  I have had the privilege of being a part of the Leadville race series, from racer and volunteer to my current role. It is the perfect blend of my passions with my heart and soul to be gifted the opportunity to be a part of this team and in this capacity.

I so look forward to sharing each event with all of you! “Dig Deep” in your training and/or… crewing prep …  and we will see you soon!

Ryan Cross, Senior Marketing Manager

Boulder, CO

How did Leadville find you?  I first came to Leadville while on a cycling trip with my Dad and brother in 2003. I was enamored with the small town feel and even as a young guy, I appreciated its uniqueness and gritty personality. When I moved to Colorado in 2013 and started a career in Sports Marketing, I ultimately found the opportunity to work for the Leadville Race Series and the rest, as they say, is history.

How has working for the Leadville Races Series positively impacted your life?  I truly believe that these events change people’s lives and make the world a better place. Seeing the transformation that occurs out there inspires me, invigorates me, and gives me value and purpose.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Leadville when you’re not working?  I love to pedal up to the east side after work and watch the sun go down above treeline. 

Quinn Cooper, National Account Manager

Boulder, CO

How did Leadville find you? I’ve lived in Colorado my entire life – from Alamosa to Fort Collins to Dillion to Grand Junction to the Denver area – Leadville has always been in the center of my life! The beauty of the mountains, community and the race series is mesmerizing and magnetic.

How has working for the Leadville Races Series positively impacted your life?  The dynamic relationships! I love being a part of the Leadville Family and how it drives another level, abundance and meaning for family. I’ve met so many wonderful people and I love getting to know everyone.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Leadville when you’re not working?  I love running or biking around the courses, fly fishing on the Arkansas River, and taking my dog (Winfield Patience – aka Winnie) to Turquoise Lake to swim.

Madison Giger, Expo Manager

San Luis Obispo, CA

How did Leadville find you?  As a cyclist growing up, I always knew about the famed Leadville 100 MTB but only could dream of going to race. I lived off stories of the adventure from friends and blogs alike. It was 2022 when I finally made it to Leadville, but not to race, instead as the Life Time Expo Manager. A lot has changed since my racing days, but it was even more special to play a role in making this event happen for all the athletes! 

How has working for the Leadville Races Series positively impacted your life?  This community is something special. The way the athletes show up to represent and the whole town comes together shows the power of people and relationships. The Leadville community has helped me foster relationships with people thousands of miles away, but always a phone call or a trip to Leadville away. 

What’s your favorite thing to do in Leadville when you’re not working?  Sneak away for a quick round of disc golf at CMC

Bernadette Finck, Retail Manager

Twin Lakes, CO

How did Leadville find you? I grew up in NJ but my family had a condo in Frisco, CO. Every winter since I was born, we would come to Frisco for a week and ski at Copper Mountain. I always wanted to live in the mountains, so when a teaching job came up in Leadville, I went for it! I taught at the Intermediate School for 5 years, and worked at the Retail store in the summer!

How has working for the Leadville Races Series positively impacted your life? I absolutely love the family and community the Leadville Race Series is! I am not a runner or a biker, but I will be out there cheering on everyone! My favorite part is watching everyone’s hard work pay off as they cross the finish line. It brings me to tears every time.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Leadville when you’re not working? I love to ski at Copper or Vail and explore the trails with my 8 month old son Eric and husband Paul. You can also catch me reading a book by Twin Lakes!

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