Who Are Your Race Friends?

Who are your race friends? The ones you call on to come with you to your next 5K or marathon? Your group of friends that are always up for some miles, no matter what? Let’s talk about it!

The Running Group

An in-person or virtual running group is always great to have at the start line of a race (and the finish line, too). Even if you don’t regularly run with them, they are there to support each other and cheer each other on. At the end of the day, it’s nice to have a group of runners with all different paces, goals, and personalities aiming for one common goal: to finish this race!

The Coach

We’ve all got that friend who is there to push you to be the best running version of yourself, and it’s great when they show up to the races where you want to be pushed. They’ve got your back and they’ll help you dig deep, even when you don’t think you’ve got anything left.

The Ambassadors

Race ambassadors are great! They are all there for the love of a particular event, and they come with a built in cheering section. While I currently rep for Best Damn Race, I would love to be out here for some more events as well. It’s a great way to meet people and really get a feeling for a race, and it’s one of my favorite ways to experience a running event.

The Race Regulars

Among your friends will be the runners who always show up to the races. Maybe you plan to meet up in order to give them a big hug and wish them luck. Maybe you bump into them at random and high five them on their way to the finish. It’s always a bright spot to see people you know, especially at the bigger events.

Your Partner

Your partner can be fantastic to bring to a race. Maybe they run the same event as you, or maybe they are waiting at the finish line, ready to cheer you on and get you a cold drink. Your partner should absolutely be a ride or die for your race experience.

The Training Buddy

Unless you are a dedicated lone wolf, you probably have a regular training buddy who joins you on your runs and workouts. This person knows what it’s like to spend miles with you, on your good days and your bad. They’ve seen you at your best and worst running form, and they know exactly what you need to carry you through the distance. You know you want this person by your side on race day.

The Running Bestie

Even if you don’t train together, the running bestie is another lifeline for those race day miles. Like your training partner, your bestie knows exactly how to keep you motivated. However, you don’t see her often, so the race becomes a great way to catch up and reconnect, even if you get your sweat on while doing so. When it’s over, you both understand you’re heading straight to brunch.

The Party Pacer

Your party pacer is there for the vibes. And in this case, to drink Starbucks on the race course. The party pacer is happy to sprint the distance, or take it easy, depending on your mood. There’s no pressure, other than to have a great time. This is the friend for all the on-course selfies and shenanigans.

The Racecationers

Among my favorite race friends are the ones who are down for a good racecation. They want the running, but they want to see new places, too, and they are able to combine the two into a fantastic time. You’ll sightsee, eat great food, and yeah, you’ll run a little, too. Perfect.

The “That Sounds Awful… When Do We Start?” Friends

You know the type. They are in for the adventure. Any adventure. And they won’t stop until they get it. Run a trail relay over the course of 48 hours, while sleeping in a tent in near-freezing temperatures? Sign them up! They’ll be there for you and each other and it’s going to be great!

So tell me… who are your race friends?

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I felt like Burn Your Half Off was the perfect first or community race. Everyone was out there for the love of running. No one took themselves too seriously, and it felt like family.

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