Gagging while racing

I sometimes have the same problem too, anyone know what to do about it?

I've had to deal with this for about the past 14 years of running. It usually happens if I go out too hard in a race 5k or over and deal with oxygen debt too long. It also happens if I race and I'm not that great of shape (usually due to trying to hit a goal time that is out of reach). I've noticed it more so in road races compared to track (I think due to improved pacing on the track compared to the road). If you feel like the gag response is coming on, just relax and take down the effort. It is far better to keep it below that threshold than cross it, gag and have to stop running and feel like crap the rest of the race. Also focus on exhaling forcefully as opposed to taking in more air (you could also be hyperventilating and you need to get rid of more CO2 compared to O2 intake). If you are noticing this happening the last 100 or so meters of a distance race and you are not in oxygen debt, then it could very well be hyperventilation due in part to a nervous response. If this is the case, you could 1): relax and keep your body smooth (don't fight your body at the end) 2) Practice hard strides (30-50 meters) 3-4x a week after your easy and hard workouts to get your body used to running fast, smooth and relaxed after it is already tired. During these strides you should practice some positive mental imagery where you pretend you are finishing up a hard race with competitors around you. The more you do this, the more relaxed you will be when the real thing happens. Good luck!

Happens too often, the last 200 meters I'm always gagging and feeling like I'm gonna throw up (which I don't usually..)

Mine was an anxiety thing. I was in the lead with about 1/2 mile to go in two separate Xc races, and I just start dry heaving.

The solution? Don't be in the lead. Takes all the pressure off of winning.