We think Mark embodies the qualities of a true runner. Not only is he a hard worker, dedicated and is motivated towards any goal he sets out, Mark is one of the nicest people you’ll meet. He’s supportive, thoughful and we believe he’s great addition to our running community. Thanks, Mark, for all you do!
Name: Mark Burke
Age: 56
Hometown: Missoula; I’ve been here 24 years. I’ve lived in the Azores, Illinois, Washington, Arizona & Texas before moving to Montana.
Miles Run Per Week: 15 – 40 depending on what i’m training for. I supplement my running with mountain biking, hiking and strength training.
What Age Did You Start Running: 39. I played tennis in high school and college, racquetball in my 20s, mountain biking in my 30s then started running. After I started running I got into triathlons and have since completed two Ironman triathlons.
Currently Training For: 2016 Masters National Outdoor Track Championships in the steeplechase next July. I started doing steeplechase two years ago and discovered my various abilities seem to all come together for this event!
Favorite Race or Run: I should say steeplechase because I’ve had a lot of success, but it’s also the most painful event I’ve ever done. I’m going to have to say running any trail in the hills and mountains of Montana.
Do You Prefer to Run Solo or With a Group? I end up doing most of my runs alone due to time constraints. I love running with my wife and a few friends.
Favorite Running Memory: Last year we were in Vail for my wife’s hip surgery. On a cool fall morning I ran up the Berry Picker trail to the top of one of the Vail the ski lifts. The views were beautiful, the weather was perfect and it was a very challenging run.
Favorite Thing to do Other Than Running: Hiking in Glacier NP! I’m really enjoying strength training with Mike Rankin at the Peak as well. That training has really helped my running and because of the conditioning I had some success at the Spartan race last year and love it! I want to do more this year.
Words of Wisdom: Keep trying new things, stay active, encourage others to have active lifestyles. Whatever races and events you do, make sure to you’re enjoying the training!
Anything Else You’d Like to Add: Thank you to Runners Edge and Run Wild Missoula for creating such a positive and thriving running community! And also thank you to Courtney Babcock (Key Running) for coaching my steeplechase training!
