From Running Times:
"To me, standing opposite someone in competition is truly different than rivalry," she explains. "There's so much discipline and edification involved. It's something where we're not bringing one another down, but are spurring each other on to greatness." - Sabrina Little
This is exactly how I feel about racing, it just about jumped off the page when I read it. So cool.
Go figure
That is a good quote, and I love the idea of racing bringing out the best in each competitor.
It seems to describe your running far more than mine though. I'm jealous that you have local competition that you really race, on a regular basis. For me, all my running is a time trial. Part of my problem is that I don't ever run my local races so I'm always racing against different folks.
Trying to find some more hay to restock the barn
Based on your race reports, I can see how that resonates with you.
When I am standing at the start line, I do not say one solitary word, but I am saying a lot. Exactly who is standing there with me is immaterial, as it is all in competition.
There are times when familiar faces show up, but ultimately, I am there to put my training to the test regardless of who the competition is that day.
Like the OP, having solid competition present however, definitely brings out the best in me, and is something I look forward to.
MothAudio has always had pretty much that same type of talk and philosophy. Something about him and all the racers around him being witnesses of each others hard work. The first time I heard him talk like that, 5 years ago, is when I realized what racing would mean to me from now on. And I agree with B-Plus, it shows in your race reports that you, Jay, are a true representation of that quote.
PRs: Boston Marathon, 3:27, April 15th 2013
Cornwall Half-Marathon, 1:35, April 27th 2013
18 marathons, 18 BQs since 2010
Beer-and-waffle Powered
Yup, that explains exactly what I love about racing. There's nothing better than than racing someone with a similar level so that you can both really push yourselves.
In the words of my late-coach : Just hang in there, relax... and at the end of a race anyone you see.....just pass them
Will run for scenery.
I remember a race report by Anton Krupicka from the Leadville Marathon (years ago). He was in second place and the guy in front of him took a wrong turn. For a pro runner (in a slump!) in a high-profile race, that could have been the break he needed. But he shouted ahead and told the guy right away.
I can't say from personal experience, but I like to think that's what most runners would do.
Stupid feet!
Stupid elbow!