be in the race

To be in a position of having the opportunity to succeed or win; to be in contention. I know you hoped to dance better today, but they didn't cut you, so at least you're still in the race. George is in the race for the manager position, and he's the best candidate if you ask me. A: "I can't believe that team is still in the race." B: "I know, they've had just enough wins to possibly squeak into the playoffs as the lowest seed."

be in the race

have a chance of success. Australian & New Zealand informal

1953 T. A. G. Hungerford Riverslake ‘See that bloke?’ He pointed down the road after the vanished car. ‘A few years ago he wouldn't have been in the race to own a car like that.’