The fabled race runner-up is the HARE, a four letter word. The HARE is a character from the classic Aesop's Fable, 'The Tortoise and the HARE'. In this story, the HARE is a boastful and overconfident creature who challenges the tortoise to a race. Despite his superior speed, the HARE loses the race due to his arrogance and lack of focus. This story has been used as a cautionary tale for centuries, warning against overconfidence and complacency.