The home straightaway is disappearing beneath my feet, and I'm beginning to outpace more and more of the runners. The straightaway is where I'm comfortable; there's no waiting or adapting to the bend: here I get to just run. The pressure is uncomfortable, but it's what forces my feet to push the track backwards beneath my feet.
It is only now that I allow myself the luxury of listening; the crowd is getting louder in every instant. The fact that I even consider the sound is worrying; I must focus on the rapidly approaching finish line, and the cheers of the audience are not going to get me there. Nonetheless, I can't help but acknowledge that there are people taking a strong stock in how well I and others do. I can't imagine anyone earnestly wishes me ill, but only one person can win the race. Still, I know many people are cheering for me, hoping I get to that line first.
Now is not the time to indulge, however. It is time for me to find the energy wherever it comes from, and force it down through my sneakers. "Keep your head down" is the phrase that comes to mind, although that's bad form for running. The mental principle, however, is the one I'll take on.
See you at the finish line.
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