Possible Clues:

• One unsuccessful in getting a place
• Long shot, usually
• One failing to gain a place in a lyceum, at first so put out
• Losing competitor didn't just walk but ...?
• Participant in finals, or a no-hoper? Probably the latter
• In race, not placed in first three
• 'There's no place for such as this (4,3)'
• Too organised to be a failure?
• Roan, almost last, possibly
• Unsuccessful competitor didn't just walk?