Can't touch your toes either??

Researchers have found a correlation between lack of flexibility and performance, all due to a gene that some possess.  The idea is that tight muscles, which are more prevalent in individuals with this gene (COL5A1), have an effect on speed and performance because of the physics of energy return.  Tight muscles equal improved performance through improved running economy...

Not sure we can call this high quality scientific evidence (small sample size, one population, no repetition of the study, etc)...but I'll say I dislike my tight legs a little less today!

Check it out here...
http://running.competitor.com/2013/11/training/study-better-runners-are-inflexible_38726

Oh hi big Kinvaras.  I love you.

All is well in Arizona.

Check out this article on fellow Dukes Track Club member Kris Houghton and his thirteen month old daughter Alma.

http://www.abqjournal.com/sports/2013/01/22/father-daughter-stroll-to-a-record.html

The pair now hold the world record for the fastest half marathon run with a baby jogger.  Note that there are rules...the baby jogger has to be commercially available and mass produced, available to the general public.  The road tires pumped to 100psi are sold separately 

Go Dukes!  Alma does not look impressed.

All in all, EXCELLENT weekend with friends and fellow runners.  PRs, world records, first time racers, and star sightings (Desi Davila)...but in the end, great company and tons of fun.  More to come on the actual "race" later!