run for one's money

Etymology
The idiom likely originates with horse racing, where one can get enjoyment "from watching the race even if one does not win much." Its usage was first recorded in 1874.

Noun

 * 1)  A difficult challenge for the person indicated, especially one involving a competitive situation.
 * 2)  A reasonable opportunity to succeed, perform acceptably, or escape harm, especially in a difficult situation.
 * 1)  A reasonable opportunity to succeed, perform acceptably, or escape harm, especially in a difficult situation.
 * 1)  A reasonable opportunity to succeed, perform acceptably, or escape harm, especially in a difficult situation.
 * 1)  A reasonable opportunity to succeed, perform acceptably, or escape harm, especially in a difficult situation.
 * 1)  A reasonable opportunity to succeed, perform acceptably, or escape harm, especially in a difficult situation.

Usage notes

 * Usually preceded by the verb to give followed by a noun or pronoun which functions as an identifying the person(s) receiving the run for their money: