The boring middle is the difference maker.

The boring middle is the difference maker. It's a no mans land. You start out fast, others get ahead of you a lot are behind you and you're alone in the middle without a pack. 

It's easier to slowdown and join the pack in the back but harder to keep pushing and join the pack in the front. As long as you keep your pace and have some extra left in the tank to finish strong you will join the front pack.