Unrequited ambition

Imagine that you are watching a race. The participants are tired, their pinned-on numbers damp from sweat, as they pant and force themselves ever closer to the finish line. Your favorite racer is in the lead - his breathing is heavy but there is determination in is eyes. All that training, the hard work, the passion - it’s about to pay off as he approaches the finish line. Just a few more feet, and then - nothing. He just stops - detours a bit, runs backwards, retraces some of his steps, visits with some observers. He goes over to the basketball court and shoots a few hoops. Finally, he comes back and drags himself across the finish line. All the while, you are stunned. He was so gung ho, just to fizzle out?