The context of the following conversation is Alex tried to win the race but all he caught was dust from the racers in front of him.:
Alex says I gave it my all in the marathon..
The friend responds How long did you run?.
Alex responds It was a two-mile race..
The friend responds That's long distance running..
Alex responds I kept my usual stride, and when I sped up close to the end, I caught the dust from the other racers..
The friend responds That's too bad. I hope you have better luck next time..