correct me if i'm wrong anybody, but i'm pretty sure that...

2nd place = 1st runner up

3rd place = 2nd runner up

you have them backwards

Anyone can give me comment?

This thing always confuses me too. It doesn't make sense right?
To answer you question, I agree with bluemagic.

Think of it as 'the first runner-up to pass the finish line' = 2nd place
'the 2nd runner-up to pass the finish line' = 3rd place

and so on

Nona, Why is the first runner up not the first place? I think the secret lies in the meaning of runner up. What's that?

I also want to know the reason..

Guys, do your homework and use your dictionaries, it's there:

runner up

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/runner%20up

I'm sorry. Actually I wanted to learn its origin. I know the meaning of the phrase or I wouldn't have answered the post. Sorry for the confusion.

My (not too long) research shows there's no clear explanation for the origins of term. Just learn it as it is.

No sir, 1st runner up is the title for second place after the winner. While the 2nd runner up is the third place. The reason is after the winner the second one is the first who run after the winner and so on.

Chavis