Ryan Outerbridge On Butterfield Mile
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Ryan Outerbridge expects Dage Minors to set the tempo in the men’s elite race in the Butterfield Mile on Front Street tomorrow [January 17].
Outerbridge, who placed fifth in his debut elite men’s race in 2023 acknowledges Minors – a three-time champion and reigning titleholder – as the clear frontrunner and the likely pacesetter.
“There’s always that one runner who dictates the race, and that’s usually Dage, who has won the past two years,” Outerbridge told Bernews.
“He usually likes to take the race out slowly and everyone else follows.
“The race starts to ramp up with around 600 metres remaining when everyone starts going.”
The 22-year-old recalls the electric atmosphere of his previous outing in the iconic event, describing it as a moment to cherish.
“I remember me and Dage got a huge cheer from the crowd as the only two local runners,” said Outerbridge, who placed second in the Bermuda Half-Marathon Derby last year. “It gave me goosebumps!”
For Outerbridge, this year’s race preparation have come with a few strategic adjustments.
Opting out of the BF&M 10K on Saturday, he is focused entirely on fine-tuning his performance for the Mile.
He also knows that the event’s outcome could hinge on the often-unpredictable January weather.
“It’s usually windy, but you never know quite what to expect,” said Outerbridge, who has claimed Front Street Mile Primary School, Middle School and Senior School titles. “The weather can certainly play a role in the outcome of the race.”
Returning to Bermuda from Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire for the holidays, Outerbridge has used the break to intensify his training.
“I came home for Christmas and kept the mileage high,” he added. “I’ve been here for the past month or so and doing a lot of training.
“I’ve also done some tempo sessions and long runs with Sean Trott, which has been beneficial.”
