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Top 7 Reasons NOT to Participate in 2024
Are you contemplating whether to lace up those running shoes for the 2024 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events? We get it, committing to a marathon or half marathon is a big step. We've compiled the top 7 reasons we hear for why you might not want to run and addressed how we’ve crafted an unforgettable experience that's meant to inspire, include, and move you (literally!) 🏃♂️🏃♀️
1. You don’t want to run 26.2 miles
Your Concern: Not everyone can or wants to run a marathon.
How Pittsburgh is Different: In case you missed it, our mission at P3R is to inspire any and all to MOVE—it’s not to inspire everyone to run the marathon distance! Marathon Weekend is an entire weekend of events and races, including shorter runs (like the 5K, any leg of the Marathon Relay, or the Kids Marathon with your family) and walks (like the Half Marathon Walking Division!). Movement, accomplishments, goals, and celebrations shouldn’t be—and aren’t!—limited to just those who run the fastest and farthest!
2. $$$
Your Concern: Races can be quite pricey, and not everyone can afford the standard registration fee.
How Pittsburgh is Different: We offer early bird pricing, discounts for running club members, students, veterans, and corporate challenge teams, and even flash sales throughout the registration process to ensure that everyone can join in. You can also earn your registration fee back by fundraising for your favorite charity through our Run for a Reason Charity Program OR through our referral program. Because moving together should never break the bank! Make sure you’re subscribed to our email list to be the first to know about our flash sales!
3. You don’t know how to train
Your Concern: Training for any distance—whether it’s a 5K or a marathon—can be overwhelming if you're going at it alone—especially if it’s your first time!
How Pittsburgh is Different: We offer FREE training plans along with your registration, as well as opportunities to engage with our partners and get tips to help get you to that iconic finish line. Plus, P3R’s Kids of STEEL program makes training a family affair!
4. You don’t think you’ll stay motivated
Your Concern: Staying motivated is hard.
How Pittsburgh is Different: From motivational emails to success stories and training tips, we're your biggest cheerleaders. And guess what? Our data shows that you guys love this type of inspiration! On the course, more than 300,000 spectators line the streets to cheer everyone all the way to the finish line. A RaceRaves reviewer said, “You could not beat the crowd support” in Pittsburgh! Another recent finisher said Pittsburgh has the “best crowd support of any race I’ve ever run!”
5. You don’t think you’re welcome
Your Concern: Feeling represented and included is important.
How Pittsburgh is Different: We work hand-in-hand with community organizations to ensure our events are as inclusive and as welcoming as possible. We even host a non-binary division so that everyone has the opportunity to compete however they like. EVERYONE is welcome in our races, and EVERYONE should feel safe, welcome, and seen. One of our recent half marathon finishers even shared, “I felt so welcomed by Pittsburgh!”
6. Racing is wasteful
Your Concern: Sustainability matters.
How Pittsburgh is Different: For more than a decade, P3R has partnered with the Pennsylvania Resource Council to create a comprehensive sustainability plan that runs from the start line through the finish line festival. Since 2015, our event has been considered “zero waste” with more than 90% of waste being diverted from landfills!
7. You don’t have time
Your Concern: Scheduling conflicts are real.
How Pittsburgh is Different: Can't make it on race day? No problem! Our virtual races let you run when and where it's convenient for you, while still feeling connected to our vibrant community. You can also opt for a shorter race option that doesn’t require you to spend as many hours training!
