What are the similarities between Gretchen and Squeaky?

Gretchen P. Lewis is Squeaky's main competitor at the upcoming May Day races and is also considered a talented runner. Like Squeaky, Gretchen is also confident in her racing abilities. At the beginning of the story, Squeaky mentions that Gretchen has been telling everyone that she will win the first-place medal in the May Day fifty-yard dash. However, Squeaky believes that she will beat Gretchen because she considers herself to be the "fastest thing on two feet."
Squeaky mentions numerous times throughout the story that she is not interested in trading insults with other girls and would much rather fight someone than verbally spar with another person. Similarly, Gretchen is depicted as a rather reserved girl, who is more concerned about her actions than insults. In the scene where Gretchen and her friends approach Squeaky and Raymond on the street, Gretchen is the only person who does not speak. As her friends make rude comments toward Squeaky, Gretchen simply crosses her arms and listens. Gretchen is also a talented runner and is a formidable opponent. When Squeaky arrives at the May Day races, Mr. Pearson mentions that Gretchen should give Squeaky a run for her money. Squeaky also recognizes Gretchen's talent and continually shows her concern about beating Gretchen. After the two girls race, the judges argue over who won. The close finish highlights Gretchen's athletic ability and confirms that she is as good as everyone thought. Also, Squeaky mentions that Gretchen smiles back at her after the race and hopes that Gretchen will be interested in helping coach Raymond. Both girls are serious about running and share a mutual respect for each other. Overall, Squeaky and Gretchen seem to have more in common than one would assume judging by Squeaky's initial point of view.

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