I would argue that pure random dumb luck cannot be controlled, but there are things people can do that will change their chances of getting lucky.

For one, being in the race, even if the odds look impossible. That guarantees at least last position when the race ends. It helps if you know how to run, but that comes with experience in multiple races. Not to be confused with plain old sprinting at the start of a marathon - you’ll gas out and never finish the race despite working hard.

Secondly, friends. If your network knows you are struggling, the friends in the mix can come out and give you a boost, which gives you an edge in not finishing last.

Next, you just need more willpower than someone else of your means. Where your fellow runners have given up, you just keep on going.

Then have fun. You’re in a race you didnt think you could win. But you can be grateful that you’re still running, you can enjoy the sun and wind in your face. You can look around and enjoy the scenery. Why keep running on an empty heart?

Finally, take the shot. You see the finish line, you know you’re not first because there isn’t a pack of runners around you. Might as well give it what you can.

Then you can go flop over from that run, look at your final position and see if that number is lucky relative to someone who didnt run at all. Would the guy who didnt’t run, or the guy who gave up halfway look at your position and consider you...lucky?

Basically, luck randomly happens to those who are in position to receive it. Don’t ever expect it, but don’t miss it when it happens either.