Four lessons to learn from back-of-the-pack runners

Let’s be honest–most of us won’t find ourselves standing on a podium anytime soon. While much of our attention is directed toward the feats of race leaders, their training regimens and the hurdles they overcome, we regular runners have accumulated invaluable experiences and insights that might escape those tearing up the front of the race course.

Back-of-the-pack runners merit acknowledgment. Spending more time traversing a race or event should not diminish one’s status as a runner. Here are three noteworthy skills that those bringing up the rear excel at–and that all runners can derive wisdom from.

1.- Resilience and tenacity for the long haul

Back-of-the-pack runners demonstrate unmatched resilience, confronting identical course challenges and distances as their swifter counterparts but enduring for more minutes, hours, and, in the case of ultras, sometimes even days. The commitment to persevere and triumph over long periods of time underscores a special tenacity. While those on the podium may appear impressive as they swiftly navigate the course, enduring for extended hours to systematically navigate the same obstacles represents a distinctive and courageous achievement.

2.- A special spirit of camaraderie

In the rear of the pack, a unique camaraderie flourishes. This isn’t to diminish the incredible sense of community among front-runners, but the nature of swift racing often limits interactions like talking or cheering on fellow runners. When the goal is completing the distance rather than setting a record pace, runners find themselves more able to provide support, encouragement and understanding – a connection that often extends well beyond race day. The camaraderie shared among back-of-the-pack runners captures the essence of the running community. After all, it’s during these moments, not when pursuing a personal best, that you truly get to know your fellow runners.

3.- Appreciation for the journey

For runners at the back of the pack, the significance of the journey often surpasses that of the finish line–a sentiment that might sound cliché, but that resonates profoundly with those who’ve experienced it. Prioritizing a distance goal grants the freedom to immerse oneself in the process, enabling you to savour special race moments, relish the scenic beauty and appreciate the sheer joy of moving forward. This approach to running underscores the beauty of the journey, imparting a valuable lesson for everyone to seek fulfillment in the ongoing experience itself.

4.- Golden hour is the best hour

Many ultras celebrate something known as the golden hour–the race’s final hour, when back-of-the-pack runners are pushing themselves to cross the finish line. By this time, the leading runners have often returned to lend their support, and the crowds that gather are often larger than at any other point in the race. Witnessing these athletes harness every ounce of remaining strength to complete the race is a poignant experience, bringing tears to the eyes of everyone involved–from race directors and commentators to fans. The golden hour is a celebration of the unique skills and wisdom that the last runners have drawn upon to endure long hours and reach the finish line.

posted Wednesday December 13th
by Keeley Milne