i put in a good summer of training but got sick this past week and it really sucks.. had to cut my mileage in half and still feel a bit tired and fatigued on runs (especially up hills). our home xc opener is this weekend and if i dont run well im going to be cut from the team. my coach wants me to go out with the pack and try to hold on.. doesn't want me starting off behind and trying to make up ground (and that doesnt always work for me because i just end up staying in the back). the main hill section is around 1.5-2 miles in. anyone have any strategies for what i can do? i know i can hold on for at least a mile, after that should i just keep trying to make surges to stay with whoever is ahead of me? has this ever worked for anyone?