KRUM – As his feet pound against the track, Coleby Borchardt turns into a tactician.

The Krum sophomore has developed a knack for analyzing pace and timing his kick so he has just enough energy to slip past his competitors at the finish line.

It's the mental aspect of running that has allowed Borchardt to qualify in two events for his first UIL state track and field meet Saturday in Austin. Borchardt will run the 800 meters, in which he won the Class 2A Region II title, and the 400, in which where he was the region runner-up.

"He knows pace and usually runs a very smart tactical race. He can recognize when the pace is too fast," Krum coach Keith Pierce said.

Borchardt has tried various distances – running everything from 100-meter sprints to the White Rock half marathon – but his favorite event always has been the 800.

Krum's first state track qualifier since 2005 has steadily lowered his 800 time during the season, breaking two minutes for the first time with a 1:57.13 at regionals.

"It's been a dream since last year to go down [to state] and compete," said Borchardt, who also plays drums in the school's jazz band. "I've been mentally preparing myself. That's all I've been thinking about."