When the eyes of the man you love look at you, you know you have to do your best. A determination came into Martin that he had never had in racing before in his life.
Back then, when he competed in training with Steve, it was similar, but different. He knew then that there was no chance of defeating his opponent, now at least one of his rivals was within his reach and Martin had to beat him. He had to prove to Steve that he, too, had enough testosterone and the streak to beat Alston, that asshole who thought he might abuse Steve.