Bio

Who is Go Faster Dada?
Hi. My name is Derek Gagne, a 36 year old husband, father of three and age group triathlete. On August 10, 2008 I completed my first ever Sprint Triathlon as a personal goal to get in shape and shed some extra pounds. Since then, I have been hooked on the sport and it has redefined who I am in many ways. Just over two years after that first race, on August 29, 2010 I completed Subaru Ironman Canada in 12:29, a time I am very proud of. Along the way on my triathlon journey I have learned alot, which I hope to share with you on this blog.
Why the name Go Faster Dada?
I have my oldest daughter Hailey to thank for the initial inspiration. Out for runs, pushing her in the Chariot stroller 2 years ago, whenever running a little slower than I should…she would  yell out “go faster Dada” it always made me laugh and for that reason, it stuck. To this day when I race, I write the letters “gfd” on the back of my hand with a black sharpie to remind myself not only to go faster when it hurts but also to remind me that I am doing this partly to be a good role model for my kids. Having the support of my wife, kids and family is so important to me and huge thanks go out to my “IronSpectators”. You think racing Ironman is tough, ask my wife about looking after our 3 kids while watching me race with  in Penticton!
Hope you enjoy the blog!
Cheers,
Derek