Dealing with Braggarts

As the old Native American lore states, "A man who walks with his head high cannot see what lies in his path and is sure to stumble. Those who walk with eyes cast downward in humility will not stray from the path."

I haven't been to a lot of running events, but have already experienced one gentleman telling me every time he has gotten, the place he was in, etc. etc. My reaction was to avoid him after the race and at any future events.
I think people do this to get encouragement from others, but also they like being braggarts. We all do this to some degree, but to do it constantly can be a major turn off. So how do you deal with this?

Probably the easist answer is AVOID these people (if you can). But if you have to interact with them some suggestions are:

Spotlighting - One of the best tools is to gently force self-promoters to recognize others is spotlighting. Spotlighting is the practice of small or large group recognition of another's efforts, talents, or accomplishments. This causes three things to occur. First, those with no lack of confidence are forced to publicly recognize others besides themselves. Second, it lends importance to what otherwise might go unnoticed and will encourage these positive things to continue. Most importantly however, if done regularly, it forces the arrogant to begin LOOKING for things to compliment in others, taking the focus off of themselves. I'll use an example of a running group that the same people attend each week. If there is a known braggart in the group the only way to avoid them would be to not attend and that hurts you so it isn't a good option. Instead giving others in the group compliments sets an example for everyone and especially the braggart.

Limited Recognition- Some people trumpet their own accomplishments because they are under the assumption, true or not, that no one will notice them if they don't. So if you know that there is a braggart in your running group for example, giving them a little ego stroke may prevent them going on and on about themselves.

Asking for Advice- Ask for the opinions of the arrogant often. It doesn't mean that you have to act on them every time, nor does it imply agreement. It IS however, a subtle stroke to one's ego.

Shortcomings- Another reason that people feel the need to be egotistical is because they are intimidated by the abilities of others. If you are willing to be open about your own weaknesses and areas for improvement, it can be very disarming and even evoke the same information from the biggest of braggarts.