First race memories: “I was cocky about how many people I’d beat and I started way too fast”

Continuing our series on first race memories is 21-year-old runner Dan Burke. Burke started out too fast on his first 5K but has been humbled by the experience. Having now finished around 45 races including two marathons, you could say he’s caught the bug! Burke is now looking towards his first ultra.

Name: Dan Burke

Town: Port Colborne, Ontario

Age then: 18

Age now: 21

Race: Canal Days 5K

How I trained: I trained by running at least four times a week with one or two of those days running the actual race course. I didn’t know anything about speed or endurance so during my workouts, I just ran whatever speed or distance I thought was good for me at the time. Usually that ended up being a 5K run.

What I was worried about: The thing I was worried about was not getting a good time. I was aiming for under 21 minutes.

A memory that stands out: It was a cool and windy day and I was excited about completing my first ever race. I didn’t know how serious I would become about running. At the start line, I was cocky about how many people I’d beat and I started way too fast. I was the first place runner for the first 60 metres and burned out as runners passed me. I felt so embarrassed and ran a 23:48. When I received my first finisher’s medal, I forgot about my mistake. It was amazing feeling like I accomplished so much and I was so proud of myself despite not getting the time I wanted.

Races I’ve done since: Since then I have completed around 45 races. Several of those were 5K and 10K races. I’ve also done 17 half-marathons, two 30K races and two marathons. Right now I’m training for my first 50K ultra, the Niagara Ultramarathon.

Have a first race memory you want to share? Write in at sinead@runningmag2.wpengine.com.