Insulting compliments

[Alex]

I've never been one to say "great job" or "looking good" or any such things as I am passing someone. It feels strange to me to say that if I am blowing by them. I'm more likely to say "beautiful day" or "how are ya?"

On the other hand, I always smile and say "thanks" or "you, too" if someone passes me and says something like that. I agree with the folks who said that most people are not out to say intentionally nasty things in such circumstances.

At least your insulting compliment was a compliment of sorts. At least week's tri, I was on the run, and a woman passed me and said, "We may be slow, but we'll finish." Now, I know I am not a fast runner, but I wasn't feeling like I was particularly dragging or anything. In fact, I felt pretty darn good. I kept her in my sights for a while and then passed her with authority saying, "You were an excellent rabbit in that bright pink shirt! Thanks!"

I do wonder if I would have had a negative split had she not made the "WE may be slow" comment!