Ryan Outerbridge On Race Weekend And More
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Ryan Outerbridge said he is targeting a podium finish in the elite men’s race at the Butterfield Mile on Front Street today [January 16], with the event marking his season opener.
Outerbridge will also line up in the Allshores 10K tomorrow, but said the mile remains his primary focus this weekend.
Fellow Bermudians Sean Trott and Kallan Richardson are also set to compete in the elite men’s mile.
“This will be my first real race of the year,” Outerbridge told Bernews. “It’s my season opener, and I’d like to finish on the podium – that would be pretty big.
“Not many Bermudians have done that in the elite men’s race. I’ve always been in the mix but haven’t been able to get over the line. Hopefully I can change that this year.”
Outerbridge said he is familiar with much of the competition, including defending champion Ben Claridge.
Describing the Butterfield Mile as one of the standout events on the local calendar, Outerbridge said its atmosphere makes it special for runners of all ages.
“It’s such a big event for local runners, from primary school through to the senior level,” he said.
“It’s under the lights, people come out to watch, and it’s always a great atmosphere.”
He added that his decision to contest the 10K would depend on how his body responds after the mile.
“It’s a quick turnaround, but that’s the goal right now,” Outerbridge said. “I just want to have fun in the 10K and see what I can do.
“I want to be the first local male across the line, and I’ll give my all.”
Outerbridge, a graduate of Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire, is working as an assistant coach at New England College under the guidance of Zach Emerson as he prepares for the indoor season.
“Further down the line, I’ll take coaching more seriously once my athletic career is done,” he said.
