That's impressive! The anger and embarrassment most likely flooded his muscles with endorphin similar to 'fight or flight.' 25 years ago I was at a road bike stage race which started with an Individual Time Trial. When I rolled off the ramp, I took a few pedal strokes and somehow dropped my chain. It took me about 10 seconds to eventually spin it back onto the cogs and I proceeded to ride. I was so furious that I was shocked at how strong I felt from that mistake. I won the time trial. But I'm convinced it was the endorphin from anger and embarrassment that I did so well. I've won a lot of Time Trials, but that was by far the sweetest win. I'm glad I dropped my chain that day.

It also didn't hurt that he looked like he was about 6" taller with longer legs than the other two.