Well, somebody had to come second
I think it's the best that I've done
As I entered the straight, the tape beckoned
But he just chested past me and won
Still, I'm only 18, I'll get faster
I started this sport just for fun
But there's lots more to learn, lots to master
You don't just go out there and run
Well, somebody had to come third love
I gave it my lot, all the way
I flew round that bend like a bird, love
But then, it just wasn't my day
Still, I'm 23, getting stronger
And I'm certain I'm giving my all
It's just that the distance seems longer
And the pleasures beginning to pall
Well, somebody had to come fourth, dear
I tried just as hard as I could
But the wind at this track's from the north dear
And that never does me any good
Still, at 30, you’ve got to be sure, love
These youngsters are lacking the skill
And I've grown to be fast and mature love
I'll win, I believe that I will
Well, somebody had to fill fifth place
My legs were like lead at the end
I know, it's a terrible disgrace,
But that's it, I'm finished my friend
At 35 nobody fears you
Nobody cheers at your name
No need for that blanket, no tears now
You remember that early acclaim
Well, somebody had to come last now
Or else how could we have a race?
I let all the others go past, how
They elbowed and pushed and lost face
Me? I enjoyed the fine weather
And kept myself clear of their maul
At 40, just finishing’s clever
And the pleasures in running, that's all
Well, I've never been first 'cross the line love
I've not made a penny o’ brass
But I reckon it all worked out fine love
I just never reached the top class
Now I see 'em all jiggered with joggin'
Their faces distorted with pain
Such grief, it makes me need a noggin
Let's be first down the tavern again
Such grief it makes me need a noggin
Let's be first down the King's Head again