Pacers train to hit a time. They race to a plan, trying to control the controllables.

Racers learn competitive skills that equip them to meet any challenge. They change pace, adjust technique, adapt to whatever the race demands.

If you're training athletes to WIN when it matters, train them to be Racers.

In rugby for example, are you coaching players to rigidly follow your game plan to the letter (PACERS) or are you coaching them to follow your game plan but give them the tools to be able to change, adapt, counter-attack and make rapid accurate decisions when opportunities arise?

Which are you coaching?

I address the question at my SwimmingGold Substack:

You can listen to and read a lot more from Wayne at his SwimmingGold and SportsThoughts offers on Substack, writes Craig Lord:

Wayne Goldsmith | Substack

Wayne Goldsmith is a dynamic force in the world of sport, coaching, performance, and leadership. With a career spanning over three decades, Goldsmith’s writing engages audiences with his insightful perspectives on sports, coaching, and leadership.

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His Pacer or Racer reminded me of the man and mind behind Popov's success: his mentor and coach Gennadi Touretski:

LINK

And here's another theme that Wayne has picked up on that is not swimming specific but highly significant to the direction in which swimming is travelling. Have a listen and, if so minded, let us know your thoughts on what form 'player power' should take, ahead of me taking a deep look at the subject in the near future.