Matthew Burke, 36, Newberry, FL, Retired MSgt USAF, Founder/President/CEO 10 CAN, Inc., Ph.D. Scholar, Farmer
What inspired you to start doing races?
The USAF Wounded Warrior Program recruited me into their Adaptive Sports program. I competed at the National and Internal levels against other Wounded Warriors.
Do you walk, run or run/walk, swim, cycle, do obstacles?
Due to the nature of my combat injuries, I am unable to run. I swim, do low impact obstacle courses, Martial Arts, and watersports such as kayak/canoe races.
What distances do you do?
The races that I do range from short swims to long expeditions that are 100+ miles.
How many have you done?
I have competed in over 20 races throughout my athletic career.
What do you feel is your greatest race accomplishment?
I feel that my greatest race accomplishment was winning a Silver medal swimming against 13 other nations in the Invictus Games held in London in 2014.
Favorite race and why?
My favorite race is the local Survival Race for Heroes. I’m able to test my ability to survive while pushing my body to its’ limits. This race is a charitable endeavor for Military Families.
Do you travel for races?
I use to travel quite a bit for races. I try to keep them as local as possible now.
Does your race schedule become expensive? How do you afford to make it happen?
One of the reasons I keep my races local is because of expenses. My sponsors paid my way when I was competing Nationally and Internationally. I’ve checked that box, and now compete in races to keep my edge.
Must-have gear on race day:
The gear I need on race day is either swim goggles, or a boat.
Weirdest place you’ve ever chafed:
The weirdest place I’ve ever chafed was under my arms.
Do you prefer to run in warm weather or cold weather?
I prefer to run in warm weather. The cold creates excessive pressure behind my ears.
Favorite pre-race meal/snack:
While I like to eat special dark chocolate before the race, I always rely on the spiritual bread of life to keep me motivated throughout the race.
Weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever experienced at a race:
The funniest thing I’ve ever experienced in a competition is being beaten by a British man in a wheelchair that painted his fingernails.
Worst experience during a race:
The worst experience I’ve ever had during a race is succumbing to my injuries while swimming, and having my mother in the stands thinking about jumping in to save me.
Most awesome moment you’ve ever had at a race:
The most awesome moment I’ve had during a race is finishing even though my body failed. I finished 2nd place, and was able to do a photo op with our 2nd lady.
Your favorite part of participating in races:
My favorite part in participating in races is the camaraderie.
Do you wear costumes? If so, what’s been your favorite
I do not wear costumes during a race unless it’s for a good cause.
How important are awesome medals to you?
I collected trophies as a child, and still have them to this day. Having a medal to brag about is very important.
Best medal you’ve earned so far:
The best medal I’ve earned is the Gold at the Invictus Games.
Do you prefer to run alone or with a buddy?
While I prefer to run with a buddy, there are times when I just need to run alone.
Favorite song on your playlist:
I don’t have a favorite song on my playlist. Some of the music I listen to during a race is Bond, Lindsey Sterling, and Christian Hip-Hop.
Who is your race hero and why? 
Jonny Alexander from Fort White would have to be on the list of competitive people I admire the most. He is a double amputee from the Vietnam war.
What is the top race on your bucket list?
The top race on my bucket list is the Survival Race for Heroes. It is an extreme adventure race through nature. You can keep the road well-traveled, I’ll take the forest trails.
What has been the best physical side effect of your participation in races?
The best physical side-effect of participating in races is my mental health.
Your advice for others who might be intimidated by signing up for a race:
My advice to others who might be intimidated by a race is to just do it. Don’t worry about winning. Focus on finishing. Your body is a machine designed for much more than you could ever imagine. Surprise yourself by testing your limits.
Thank you for your selfless service to this great country, Matthew. We appreciate you! Fitz and the entire team at Fitzness.com
Incredible asset to ur community. Shares with everyone. Come visit him at the 10 CAN, Inc. FARM
www10-CAN.INFO.