Mr. Putter & Tabby Run the Race -- Cynthia Rylant, Paperback

Mrs. Teaberry has persuaded Mr. Putter to sign up for the seniors' marathon. First prize is golf clubs, but second prize is . . . a train set! Mr. Putter really wants that train set. Never mind that he can't even touch his toes. Somehow, he has got to find a way to place second. . . .