be a poor third

be a poor third

To finish a race or competition well behind the winner and second-place finisher. Primarily heard in UK. I was a poor third in the race because my leg cramped up towards the end of it.See also: poor, third

be/come a poor second, third, etc.

(especially British English) finish a long way behind the winner in a race, competition, etc: The Socialists won the election easily with 40% of the vote, with the Democrats coming a poor second with only 26%.See also: come, poor