Anonymous wrote:If she’s asked you specifically not to go - don’t, and don’t push the issue. As a person who enjoys running for one of the benefits of absolutely not worrying or thinking about anything but the run I’m on, don’t give her something to stress or think about. Your presence may make her nervous or just create an additional load on her mind she would rather not have. Or, crossing the finish line might not be a huge deal for her, and she just doesn’t want to put anyone out for it. And traveling to see her cross a line, is just that. I did a marathon and other small runs, and have never had the desire to have family or friends there. I do the run, I enjoyed the process of getting there and if I had others runners to hang with after, that would be the camaraderie I’d desire. It’s not a bad thing. Maybe she would love to see your face at the finish. But maybe not. And, if you just show up it may upset her. Wait for another one and see if she wants you there. Let her have this first experience as her experience and how she see’s it happening for herself and only herself.

Anonymous wrote:My DD (in her twenties) is going to run her first marathon this Fall. She has worked hard, and I am proud of her, even though I am totally unathletic myself.

I have recently retired, and assumed I would travel the few hours away to cheer her on when it happens. When I discussed that with her this weekend, she was hesitant. She said I certainly could attend, and she understood my desire to be supportive...but explained that afterwards she would likely to out with her running friends. So I would be traveling for hours and staying in a hotel, but interact with her very little.

To those of you who are serious runners...should I just stay home? Is it normal that her family members would not be included in social festivities after the race (along with her friends)? I am torn. Thank you.