WHEN YOU'RE THE BEST Coach Ed Dear Coach Ed, I love to do hurdles, the 400 as well, and I also like long jump, cross country , high jump, kayaking, hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing. The people at my school aren't very fast at all. Should I just do the best I can and leave the others behind or should I stay behind with the slower people? We have a very small track team. Sincerely, Young Athlete Dear Young Athlete, If you are a competitive athlete you really have to do the best you can. It is not fair to your team or yourself to do any less. Being a talented athlete has many advantages but it comes with a set of responsibilities. This is your chance to be a leader and inspire your team. Encourage the athletes on your team. Congratulate your teammates and your competitors regardless of the outcome of a race or meet. Be gracious in victory and defeat. Enjoy. Good luck, Coach Ed Ed Poirier, "Coach Ed", recently was invited by the United States Olympic committee to attend a workshop and training seminar at the Olympic training center in California.