Holdiays- Athlete Beware!!!

As Labor Day weekend approaches I can’t help but think about how different these weekends are for the partners of athletes.  While most people are thinking about how they’re going to spend the days off, we’re getting ready for whatever race is going on this time.  This weekend is no different- I know we just got back from a triathlon, but there’s a half marathon close by, so we must go.  I will hand it to Kimee- she’s done a good job of making sure this doesn’t dominate the weekend.  We’ll be back in time for a family function, I don’t have to close my business, and we’ll be home all day Monday.  Plus she’s got a family member coming to stay with the kids, so it’s a couple of days alone for the two of us.  That’s never a bad thing.  Even so, I must admit that events on holidays always rub me the wrong way a bit.

Athletes are really good at doing an event in the morning and then checking out mentally and physically the rest of the day.   Understandable considering what they just did, but still annoying when you’re left dealing with 2 kids basically on your own on what is supposed to be a day for family.  It doesn’t take much to keep the peace- just make an effort to let your partner know you realized they take up the slack so you can devote all this time to your hobby.  Also make sure that somewhere in the middle of this ego trip (which most events are to varying degrees) your partner gets some time to for him or her.  It doesn’t take a lot: I love seeing my wife succeed at her goals.  I just need to know she feels the same way about mine.

As for events on holidays- here’s my rule of thumb for when to do or not do an event:

NEVER DO A RACE ON:

• Your partner’s birthday
• Anniversary
• Christmas/ Easter (or equivalent if you are a different faith)
• Mothers/ Fathers Day
• The same day as a family reunion, wedding, or other gathering

Any other holiday be really careful about doing a race. And make sure as much time is spent being a family instead of an athlete and his pit crew.  I’m sure Kimee and I will enjoy the weekend both at the event and (more importantly) at home.  I just have to make sure my “workout widows” shirts are clean for the expo and race.

Dave