# Reaching the Finish Line


By Ben Ramsey

Published on October 8, 2004


<gloat> \
So, I've won [the race](http://shiflett.org/blog/2004/sep/the-race-continues), and I've confirmed it with [Chris Shiflett](http://shiflett.org)! Woo hoo! \
</gloat>

In all seriousness, it took me only an hour and a half to solve. I had never really cared to put any time into it, so I had only given it cursory glances. However, when I noticed that Zend had fronted a prize for it, I decided on a whim to try a sweet tactic, which proved, in the end, to greatly aid in crossing the finish line first.

_What was that tactic?_ you may ask. Well, if I told you, there wouldn't be anymore challenge, would there? Nope. I have sworn myself to secrecy until Chris decides to publish the answer.

Until then, will you come in second?

[![Clock](https://files.benramsey.com/ws/blog/2004-09-01-the-race-begins/shiflett-clock.gif){: .center }](http://shiflett.org/blog/2004/aug/the-race-begins)