Fear is the strongest ...

Fear is the strongest driving-force in competition. Not fear of one's opponent, but of the skill and high standard which he represents; fear, too, of not acquitting oneself well. In the achievement of greater performances, of beating formidable rivals, the athlete defeats fear and conquers himself.
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 Franz Stampfl

Quotes from the same author

With the proper motivation, that is, a good reason for wanting to do it, your mind can overcome any sort of adversity.
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 Franz Stampfl
Training is principally an act of faith. The athlete must believe in its efficacy; he must believe that through training he will become fitter and stronger; that by constant repetition of the same movements he will become more skilful and his muscles more relaxed...He must be a fanatic for hard work and enthusiastic enough to enjoy it.
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 Franz Stampfl
In the achievement of greater performances, of beating formidable rivals, the athlete defeats fear and conquers himself.
 See image
 Franz Stampfl
The Possibilities in racing tactics are almost unlimited, as in a game of chess, for every move there is a counter, for every attack there is a defense.... The runner's greatest asset, apart from essential fitness of body, is a cool and calculating brain allied to confidence and courage. Above all, he must have a will to win.
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 Franz Stampfl