Race Run, How Did That Happen

Ever gone on a run, and come across another runner? More likely than not the answer is yes, especially if you're from a city or suburban area. In Albany I find that no matter where I run I pass by numerous fellow runners. The situation I'm about to describe usually only happens in the summer. But on this brisk day in November I found myself in the same circumstance.

You're on a run, usually a decently long run, a six plus miler or so and you come across another runner say twenty feet ahead of you. The natural instinct inside of you to race sparks up. You have to constantly remind yourself that this isn't a race it is in fact just a workout and you need not search for your inner strength in order to pass this unsuspecting runner. You keep telling yourself over and over that you don't need to surge ahead. More likely than not, your mind and body do it anyway.

The catch is always after you pass them.

Once you've passed this runner you quickly realize you have five more miles to go and usually this person is going for a casual two miler or something along those lines. This means they're able to run quickly easily and you're trying to pace yourself. This puts you in the transition for turning your easy long run into an intense long tempo run, which is never fun, especially when you're not expecting it.

You'll continue to push because you clearly cannot let this person pass you back. This continues for the entirety until finally the other runner fades off or takes a turn behind you. You instantly pray to never do that again and then continue on your way with a much higher heart rate than you anticipated.