How To Pick The Best Races To Run In 2016
Our readers told us what is important to them when picking a race.
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We asked…
How do you decide which races will be your goal races for the year?
You answered…
…On Facebook:
Picking your goal races for the year isn’t always easy. A ton of factors can play into what you chose to run—and those factors are different for each runner. Our readers shared what is important to them when it comes to choosing a race. Hopefully this can help you narrow down your choices and pick the best event for you!
Benita Wright Smith: From race reviews of other runners. When I see positive reports from many runners about a race it gets serious consideration for the next year. For 2016 it will be the Queen Bee, Trenton Half and St. Jude’s
Heather Andersen: I have a bucket list of races I want to do but most importantly is cost including travel and hotel stays. I can only afford to do one big race a year. Then I’ll do various smaller races around where I live.
Amanda Jenkins: Distance, location, scenery, elevation, if I’m alone or with someone, am I doing the race to train for another race, am i celebrating anything (I turn 30 in 2017. I want to do a run vacation at a national park to ring in 30) etc. All come into consideration.
Mact Coventry: Whatever my running buddy & I think looks fun! Disney Princess in Feb., Mini Mutt in May & anything goes after that!
Kathi Dewey: Creature of habit- I return to most races I’ve done year after year- perhaps a destination race is in my future?
April Eaton: Fun distances (I like 10K…1 or 2 half marathons a year is my max), in pretty places, with people who make me laugh.
Shawna Davis: This year I’m going to work on speed and strength, so I’m doing only 5 & 10k’s. I’ve found all the “regulars” I do, plus a few trail runs and a few others that just seem fun. I’m shooting for a trail half in April 2017.
Jill Bauer: Good quality shirt, awesome medal, goodie bag!
Devi Benhasenn: The shirt and the goodie bag. Then the scenery and the feedback from other runners.
Leanne LeMaster Schneider: Varying distances, new locations, price…
Mandie Pie: I just do what Disney offers.
Sara Alarcón: The recipient cause. I only do runs for a charity benefit
Ruth Thompson: I went with accident…I thought the race was a few hours closer than reality.
Danyella Roddis: If there was a race this year I regretted not entering or for some reason I couldn’t do, then it’s on my list for 2016!
…On Twiter:
@beckythecyclist: I’ve always wanted to go to Ireland, so the Dublin City Tri is my goal race. Also, coolest medal ever.
@Itsyourturnlee: I will look to expand my miles—10k and one or two to improve speed.
@JaninaPaasonen: I have one point. When I decide what races I will run, I want always something new. i don´t do same races many times.
Here are some more ways to set goals for 2016
Making SMART Goals
How To Pick The Perfect Training Plan
Fun Things To Do After Finishing Your Goal Race