racing to complete vs racing to compete

My reasons for racing aren't much different that the rest of you.  Having that race on the calendar keeps me motivated to keep training, always striving to run a little faster or a little farther.  One of my first races, I placed in my age group because the field was so small, but that little plastic medal left me hungry for more.    Some day, I want to be fast enough to qualify for Boston just for the sheer bragging rights and I'm willing to work for it.  It took me almost 6 hours to finish the Philadelphia Marathon.  It took me less than 5 hours to finish the Buffalo Marathon.  I know that once I nail that first 10K in under 50 minutes, training for Boston is realistic.  I race because my fellow runners are my social network.  I know if I surround myself with people who make physical fitness a priority that I am less likely to slip back into old habits where food is the focal point of every social engagement.  That's not to say that I don't enjoy the feast after the race and the ability to eat more because of what I burn through exercise. I race because I CAN!  Reading the adventures of everyone on the board inspires me to try things I never thought were within my reach.   Each story opens up new possibilities that keeps fitness fresh and exciting. Cassie