Oh, yeah, they plot and plan. Add in the fact that if they can get their head through a space, they're gone. They're slippery, clever and as you described, almost impossible to catch in a chase. (That would have made an awesome video, btw!) Your best bet is to try to outsmart them or use a weakness - treats, catnip, whatever - as a lure and hope it's enough to get them within reach. 

Bubba taunts me from under the deck. Even though I know he's safe, I worry about cold & wet. Yet, he sits there, cleaning his paws and looks me right in the eye. If a cat could flip me off, Bubba would do it. Lol!