Race Etiquette for Running Partners?

Tough call. Running a "race" is an individual sport more than a team one and you all are starting to see that your talents and ambitions differ. I thnk that you would all be happier just running your own races and celebrating together at the finish.

I've done both: stay with my training partners and stepped out on my own (or let them go). I don't think there's anything wrong with separating during the race. It's what you've been training for all this time!

I've done both. I ran a half marathon with a friend who was certainly a better runner, but far more nervous than I was. We stuck together because our only goal was to finish in a decent time -- neither of us was running to place or anything. I've also run in shorter races where my goal wasn't the same as my running buddy's, and we split up when it became evident that one was holding the other back. Both ways worked wonderfully, and the post-race celebration was the same either way!

I agree with Brie. I'm way too competitive to slow my pace for friends or family. Bring an iPod for yourself and a bottle of champagne for a post-race celebration with your training buddies!

I say stick together! It will be a lot more fun for the both of you. Plus it's so much easier to run with a partner than alone. Good luck!!!

If someone is the same pace as me, I'll stick with them during a race. However, if I'm holding someone back, or they're holding me back, all bets are off. This is a race after all (even if it's just for fun) and everyone should try to get the best time possible. Plus, if they finish before you they can ready the beers.