Tim Burke Moves up to 11th in Pursuit

"We knew that his goal was to stay among the Top 15, but that he would really manage it is amazing!" - U.S. coach James Upham couldn't help smiling after today's pursuit competition in Antholz, Italy was over. After a great 15th place yesterday Tim Burke (Paul Smiths, NY) moved up four ranks and finished 11th in the pursuit competition.

"When I woke up this morning I felt pretty strong and motivated. I knew it could be a good day", said Burke after he crossed the finish line 1:11.9 minutes behind the winning Swede Björn Ferry. 

Three times he had to go in the penalty loop but thanks to the sixth strongest course time today he still managed to stayup front. "My skiing was again really good and thanks to that it was really a solid race. But my shooting wasn't as good as I thought", explains Burke. Then he laughs and shrugs his shoulders. "But at least I avoided major damage..."

Coach James Upham was quite happy with Burke's performance. "Given that we are in a high attitude I think his skiing performance was simply amazing."

Now Burke's focus is all on Korea, where the World Championships will start in about three weeks. "Going to Pyeongchang with such a good result really keeps me motivated. I am looking forward to other great results in Asia!"