Right now, the other guy is a better runner by 9 seconds. If the OP can pace his race better, more evenly, it is likely he can run 9 seconds faster.
If it really is a 2 person race, the problem the OP faces is that by improving his pacing, he will help the other guy improve his pacing as well.
That leaves the OP with two options. A longer kick than the other guy wants to run or a surprise pass close enough to the finish so the other guy can not respond. Neither is a great option.