How does one run a winning race?

With talent, speed, or fearsome pace?

What shoes are needed to take the lead?

Can work ethic truly trump raw speed?

Rising early before a bright sun,

If medals you seek, work must be done.

Before the glory, and cheering of fans,

You must give up time, energy and plans.

Mile after mile and day after day,

Runners grow hungry like a bird stalking prey.

This fire within must burn white hot and bold.

No work out delayed to give up the gold.

As adrenaline courses through every vein,

Runners thunder through paths, like a down pour of rain.

As the race trickles down to fierce fury and might,

One runs a winning race if they put up a fight.