I’m generally not superstitious, but pre-race I find a small rock and put it in my mouth. Started doing it in HS XC to help with drymouth during races. It’s stuck with me through successful races and disasters and I don’t see stopping.
I never cross over the finish line, unless it happens to be the start line. Even then, I do not cross the line in the finishing direction. (unless the start and finish cross the line the same way).
Eric, So you suck on a rock? Do you know how many germs live in the soil? I’ll go for a mint any day. I lay my races clothes/gear out the day before and pack my post-race clothing in a bag. I sweat heavy and have to change afterward.