Crown King OG Highlight : Scott “Mojo” Modzelewski ⚒️
The Crown King Scramble just wouldn’t be the same without Mojo on the start line. He’s been a part of this race more years than not since its early days. He’s an absolute icon of the event and the sport.
We asked Scott a few questions about his experiences at this classic 50K and what keeps him coming back for more…
Q: What year was your first Crown King and what made you want to run it?
Scott: I believe it was 1988 or ’89—I’d have to go back and check the finishes. Back then, there just weren’t many ultras. The community was small, and we all knew each other. We trained together, raced each other, joked around… it was all about camaraderie and friendships. That’s really what pulled me in.
Q: What number finish will Crown King 2026 be for you?
Scott: This will be my 24th 50K finish. I also did the 50 miler once, so this will be my 25th Crown King finish overall.
Q: Favorite and least favorite parts of the course?
Scott: Least favorite is the pavement at the start, I never run on it otherwise. Favorite is the second half, especially the last 8 miles. The views are incredible, and there’s some really runnable terrain in that 20–25 mile stretch if you’ve saved your legs.
Q: What keeps you coming back year after year?
Scott: It’s the history. I’ve been doing this since I was a young guy, back when I was finishing in the 4:40s. Now it’s more like seven hours. It’s a tough race to figure out… sometimes the cramps just come no matter what you do. You’ve got to be smart, mix in some walking, and respect the course. But really, it’s the people and the memories that keep me coming back.
Q: Bonus : craziest or most memorable moment?
Scott: One year it was snowing, and I’m pretty sure I set the world record for the triple jump sliding down the trail on one leg, then the other, just trying not to fall. Another time I was completely out of energy and looked down to see some food someone had dropped on the trail… exactly what I needed in that moment. Crown King always delivers something memorable~
As do you, @scottalan36 , and we can’t wait to see you cross the finish line on Saturday once again! 🎉
The horse, intelligent, strong, and powerful! One of the best companions throughout history! @fordrbatalent #western #arizona #graniteMountain @managainsthorse
Total Beast mode for this film. Some of the most comfortable running gear I’ve worn yet. @kith@on Sometimes the hardest thing is just getting to the starting line. One foot in front of the other The Only Way to Travel. @austinscotti@sammysuh
