Bugati, Aston Martin, Porsche, Lamborghini, Maserati…. all of which scream “VRrooooomM!” as they seemingly glide across European tracks, leaving behind dropped-jaws and a swagger that is unmistakable. Until now, this awe inspiring effect has been limited to gas-guzzling coupes fixed to the cover of the Robb Report & luxury car ads……. Welcome to the “G2” era, where Nike checks speed around the track instead of Goodyear tires, & RPM’s measure footsteps instead of horsepower. And as unfair as it seems to question evolution & level of commitment these street racers have dedicated to master their art, we’re all wondering if there has been some sort of biological enhancement; a sort of advancement to human genetics that has pushed their running ability beyond the “gears” that seem to “drive” their weaker competitors.
“Let’s evaluate…”
Usain Bolt. Name sounds like a brand of engine fuel… name sounds like the boy can run… and boy, can he RUN!!! He’s broken every relevant track record, and on the same German speedway where Jesse Owens proved that African Americans were a force to be reckoned with (both in society & athletic competition), he crushed the 100M record that was his to correct in the first place. But why stop there, he took the 200M as well. “VRrooooomM!” And with all of his charisma, likability, swagger… let’s face it, there is a cloud dangling over not just above him, but the entire sport through which he has established his brand. Blame Marion Jones, Chris Gatling, & others who inserted Diesel fuel where Regular Unleaded was acceptable. So, now every great track & field athlete has to answer to the jury of public opinion, who unfortunately has already settled with a verdict.
For those like Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Carl Lewis, Michael Johnson; I hope this kid is clean and dominates the sport for years to come just as they did. I hope that he jogs into the record books, perhaps transitions into one of the NFL’s top Receivers, graduates to Canton, Ohio, retires an old man on the beaches of Jamaica surrounded by grand kids & coconut trees. But for now, unfortunately (to some) his success seems almost “too legit.” Guess time will tell….
“VRrooooomM!!”
T.J. Breeden
www.iblmedia.com
