Racing is the final part of running. It represents the culmination of months of training and practice. There is often a lot of pressure around the idea of racing. People get nervous before races because of the amount of effort they have put into training in preparation for that moment. I often feel nervous before a race myself but I’ve learned to appreciate races as a chance to test myself and perform to the best of my ability. I want my students to develop a similar outlook with the skills they develop in my class and they learn to embrace the moments where they can apply themselves. Races can be frightening but this normally goes away as you settle into your pace and you listen to the people around you. In races there are always people cheering you on and wishing you well and I think this is critical to a classroom. My students should feel encouraged just like racers so that they can continue to strive forward boldly. The supportive environment of a race day is what I want to create in my classes and I want students to push themselves and be excited by a chance to show their skill and utilize what they have been practicing. Th end of training should not be scary but should get my students excited for the next chance to test themselves. I hope that my students are excited for what comes next so that they leave my class prepared for what comes next. I think setting my students up with a mindset that encourages them to continue on about subjects even if it isn’t in my own class. I want them to celebrate finishing and doing their best while being ready for the next adventure.