If you are training for a big race: a half marathon, a full marathon or an ultra, it is tempting to skip races during your training cycle so you can complete all the weekend runs on your plan.

If you are not training, you also may feel that there’s no reason to race.  You can just run for fun on the weekend (for free).

I have no half marathons on my scheduled until Sept. 12!

But check our my racing calendar:

• • 04-25-26 – Bill Robinson Memorial 10k
  • 05-02-26 – Tropicool 5k (new course)
  • 05-17-26 – Boilermaker’s Erie Canal Race (10 miler)
  • 05-24-26 – Miles on the Mohawk (10 miler)
  • 06-06-26 – Mastercard NYC Mini 10k
  • 06-13-26 – Valley Cats Father’s Day 5k
  • 07-04-26 – Firecracker 4
  • 07-12-26 – Boilermaker 15k
  • 07-19-26 – Keep MOO’ving 5k
  • 08-09-26 – Run for the Roses 5k

Here are my Reasons to Race Often:

• Races are more fun.

Running is supposed to be fun, right?

I don’t know about you, but I rarely have fun during my weekend runs. I get them done. Period.

The atmosphere before a race is inspiring and the feeling of accomplishment after a race is addicting.

• It’s a speed drill in disguise.

Even if you say that the race only a training run or  you don’t care about your pace, most likely the enthusiasm and crowd support will have you running faster in a race than in your weekend run.

• Free water stops, porta-potties and post-run refreshments.

Ok, not free because you have to pay to run the race but you know what I mean.

It’s welcomed support before, during and/or after your run.

• You can practice race pace.

You may often run your weekend runs too fast or too slow.

Obviously it’s easier to practice “race pace” in a race.

• You connect with other runners and make new friends..

When I first started running, I had no running friends so I would race on the weekends.

Now I do have friends to run with on the weekend but I always enjoy meeting new runners.

Here are a few more (though it’s not mine):

• Bling

You get shiny medals.

• Add to your Running Wardrobe

You get new shirts, caps, jackets, etc.

Happy Running! Do you ever use a race as a training run? Do you race often? Why or why not? Please share.

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Jenny (RunnersFly) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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