Dealing With Race Cancellations

It seems to be a common thread during these times, race cancellations. I’m sure as runners a lot of us have had our spring/summer season completely wiped out. I was actually going to give a few trail races a try but they keep getting cancelled. I had even planned to pursue another marathon (I didn’t tell anyone) but once March hit, that basically went out the window. Now many people are left dealing with race cancellations.

First, find out what your options are. The World Major Marathons gave many participants the option to chose which year they would defer to. Of course, there is a lot that goes into what a race can offer. Smaller races may not be able to defer your race entry for the year but there may be a virtual option. Taking the time to find out what your options are is a great way to make a plan on how to move forward. Since races can be an investment for some runners, this is usually the first step in handling race cancellations.

Second, address the disappointment. Yes we are in the middle of a pandemic that is affecting people in various different ways. Feeling disappointment and possibly even anger that your race has been cancelled is completely allowed. Races can be a huge motivator for runners. Working for weeks towards something that is no longer there can be a huge shock. By ignoring those feelings, you may end up delaying the process. Being upset because of cancelled races is completely allowed.

Third, figure out a plan moving forward (or don’t!). You are completely allowed to make up the rules during this time. If you are someone who strives with a detailed running plan, make an open ended running plan to keep yourself motivated. If you don’t want to run as often since there is no race day, then don’t! Take this time to try out new forms of exercise or just take a break from running in general. If it is adding stress to push through running when your heart is not in it, don’t do it.

How have you dealt with race cancellations during this time?