advice for the deuce

[miler430]

hey guys, i know that there are about 5000 of these already but i need some advice. I have a meet tomorrow and my coach wants me at about 1130 (slow i know) and im 2nd on the team. There is this kid, who is third on the team who often goes out at about a 76-78 and then drops off to about an 87 or 88. My question is, should i go out like 4 seconds slower than him, and allow him to burn all his energy, so i can run even splits around 86 or so? Or should i just go with him so that he doesnt get any mental toughness by being infront of me for the first part of the race? I dont want to go out too fast so that i am rested for the remainder of the race but i dont want him to gain a mental edge on me. what do you think i should do? any advice helps

[VoidSix]

I wouldn't get caught up worrying about beating a teammate. What if he ends up running 11:00? What if you were on the same team as Andrew Bumbalough? There are just some things you can't control. Luckily you can control what matters most: your own race. Go out the smart way and try to hit even or negative splits.

[runningonguts]

Run your splits and then destroy him over the last mile. DON'T go with him. That is junior high. I doubt he will have any mental edge left once you are done with him if you run the race right.

[miler430]

how far behind him should i go? 4 seconds? 5 seconds? or just look at the watch and go for like 84 or 85?

[sfhsxc1212]

personally i like to stay with whoever i am racing (max of 2 sec behind) but for most people i would say to go out a little fast (first lap 3-4 ahead of pace) and then settle in, but if he doesnt look like he is coming back i would use some of your kick to catch him and try to hold on