One Runner at a Time

One of the challenges of running in a larger race (like a big invitational) is that there are so many runners, it might seem overwhelming to try to pass people and move up in the finishing order. That is, it will probably seem to be too big a task to look ahead and see 30 runners that you want to pass: "How can I pass 30 guys?!"

So here's what you do.

Once you get through the chaos of the start, try to find what seems like your "race pace." Then, look up ahead. But only look at the very next runner in front of you. Your mission - indeed, your only mission - is to pass that runner.

Do not think about anything else.

Do not think to yourself: "Self: let's pass those four runners up ahead of me."

Do not think to yourself: "Wow, that runner is too far ahead of me to think about passing him."

Do not think to yourself: "Look at the lovely trees and pond."

The only thing to think to yourself is: "Pass that runner that I see ahead of me."


Within 10 seconds or so, you will pass that runner. Now, your mission is complete.

But you then have a new mission: to pass the runner that you now see in front of you.

Within 10 seconds or so, you will pass that runner. Your second mission is now complete.

But you then have another new mission: to pass the runner that you now see in front of you.

Do you get the picture?

That is all.