Sometimes you need a strategy to add "one more race" to the calendar.
Make a Trade
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A compromise is a good place to start when conferring with your partner about your race schedule. As most races take place on the weekend and can range from 2 hours to 1 day, think about how you can do something for your significant other as an exchange for that time. Offer them a free weekend away from the kids, take over a few household chores or maybe work a few extra hours to pay for the race.
"I was thinking about signing up for this half marathon next month. Since I know we have a few free weekends coming up, I thought you could have a nice Saturday all to yourself, and the following weekend I could go race."
Find:
Your Next RacePick a Comparison Race
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The juxtaposition of two races can help put your ask in perspective. Maybe you are just looking to do a "fun" race this time around. It's not as time consuming as that half IRONMAN you signed up for last year or as expensive as the marathon in Europe. Keep in mind this method won't work if you are asking for that big race, so think small and cheap.
"Do you remember when I did that long, pricey IRONMAN? This sprint triathlon is one tenth the price, and I'll be back home before breakfast."
Find:
Your Next RacePick a Vacation Spot
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If you want to do another race and need your partner to sign off, try combining it with a vacation. Find a perfect match between a dreamy vacation for your partner and a great race course for you. If you plan a vacation around your race, it is best to leave much of your vacation until after the race concludes and give your partner options on activities. You get your race; they get everything else.
"Honey, you know how you have always wanted to go to Madrid? Well great news, we can go! And funnily enough, there is a marathon that same weekend. Crazy, right?"
Find:
Your Next RaceTrain Together
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If your partner has experience racing, you'll likely have a good chance talking them into doing the race with you. Depending on your spouse, there a few different ways to get them on board. You can challenge them with an interesting wager or reminisce on the good ole' racing days. There's also the classic "get them tipsy and sign them up" route. By the time they wake up in the morning, they will have a confirmation for the race in their inbox. Works like a charm!
"You know, I was thinking we could do this Olympic triathlon in a couple months, but I doubt you'll be in good enough shape for it..." *hands over beer*
Find:
Your Next RaceDrop the Mic
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Warning: Not the best option if you want to sleep in your own bed--or even inside your own house. As a last-ditch effort, mention their expensive and time-consuming hobby. That's right! Sometimes a not-so-subtle statement about their hobby can do the trick. If they don't have a hobby, it is time to find them one. We hear ballroom dancing can be quite expensive.
"Hey, the boat is looking great! By the way I signed up for another race."
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