Do you ever get frustrated reading posts here from those that seem to have little clue as to what goes on in racing a non-rabbited race where all are of near equal ability?
Many think it is like high school and whoever they choose is capable of just running away and the pack of Olympians who are not capable of following then kicking off of it. They don't realize how much energy bumping, speeding & slowing, and using moves early takes when it is time to show your cards. Many also don't seem to realize what a small margin it can be from the winner to 8th and if the race was rerun with similar strategies, results could look very different.
I was not anywhere close to this class of athletes but was occasionally high enough on the fringe nationally to understand your post. I also understand that leading in a fast paced 800 against others of equal ability pretty much assures an unwanted outcome.
It is refreshing to hear from someone who understands championship racing at a high level. Thanks for posting.