The race plan
The race plan is slightly different almost every time, but there are certain aspects that are constant. It’s important to break the race up into bite-sized sections so that it’s easier to tackle than taking the whole thing on at once. Depending on your race distance you will have to adjust this, maybe make more sections for a longer race, etc. For the steeple, it’s easy to break it up into 3 separate 1k sections as follows:
In the first part of the race, my key word is RELAX. I need to stay calm in that first kilometer. I try to find my rhythm and pace without exerting any extra energy panicking or overthinking this part.
The second part of the race is the toughest, and here is where I need to FOCUS. Falling asleep in the middle of a race is common mistake. The end still seems like it is so far away, so much work still to be done, and you’re starting to feel fatigued. “Am I gonna make it to the finish at this pace? I gotta slow down or I’m not gonna get there.” These are normal thoughts, but they are not helpful. No time to back off; recommit to your goals here in the middle of the race.
The last kilometer is where the fun really happens. Here my key word is FAST!! Time to let loose and fly! Give it every last bit you have, pour it all on, leave it all out there and cross the line on empty. The only times I’ve ever had regrets about a race performance is when I feel like I should have been braver, should have gone for it when I held back. I hate that feeling of regret and do everything I can to avoid it.
