Gareth Burkitt
How long have you been Running?
How long have you been with Caerleon Running Club and how did you come to join us?
Just under two years ago. I went to school in Caerleon and I heard the club was really friendly
What inspired you to start running?
I was trying to get fitter for the football season, then running hooked me in and I’ve barely played football since!
What motivates you to keep running?
Mainly the of enjoyment seeing new places, but I also love meeting people in the running world as we’re all fairly similarly (absolutely mad!)
What is your running ambition?
To try and get more people to take up running: I’m always trying to convince family and friends to go for a run. I don’t have any overly ambitious personal goals at the moment, I just want to get back to doing some nice trail runs around Wales.
What do you consider your proudest moment?
Pacing a friend at my old running club to a Parkrun PB. She was way more thrilled than I’d even been about a PB and it was really nice to see. Personally, I was proud of my first (and only) half marathon time of 1:34ish
Do you have any regrets when it comes to your running journey?
Not particularly. I could say I wish I’d had less injuries, but it’s all part of the learning experience.
What is your favourite race, and why? If you don’t race, what is your favourite run?
No race is really coming to mind, but I’ve done some amazing trail runs over the years. My favourite “go-to” trail route is a 6 miler that starts in Glangrwyney, goes to Llanbedr through some beautiful scenery then comes back via a small loop to the start.
What is your favourite music to run to? Or if you don’t listen to music, what do you think about while running?
Usually some dance music like Avicii, but mainly podcasts like the Socially Distant Sports Bar. The only thing I think about during a run is “why do my knees hurt?”.
What is your go-to post-run drink or treat?
Alcohol free pale ales are my recent go to.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out running?
Take your time. You’ll be running for many years so don’t feel you have to rush to get certain times or accomplishments. I tell myself this all the time.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Nope