Abstract
Utilizing the dual contexts of feminist relational psychology and the writer's acculturation to sport as a male, his daughters' competitive running relationships are explored. With the 1995 Boston Marathon as a central unifying event and metaphor, it is concluded that: relatedness and competitiveness are an empowering tension; men feel a need to bifurcate relatedness and competitiveness; and a sport such as running can foster relational growth. Girls and women, entering competitive sports in ever-increasing numbers, should be encouraged to retain and develop their relational skills in order to achieve maximum performance and attain optimal benefit. The infusion of relational values can increase the enjoyment of competitive sport by both females and males.