I thought this was just another one of those things the TNT guys tease Barkley about, but the Chuckster actually did have a race against referee Dick Bavetta at the All-Star Game this weekend:

[quote]NBA star-turned-broadcaster Charles Barkley beat 67-year-old NBA referee Dick Bavetta in a footrace for charity.

Though Barkley, who turns 44 on Tuesday, has gained weight exponentially since his playing career, he still had enough spring to outrun Bavetta over three lengths of the court. Barkley nearly lost when he began running backward for the final feet, but tumbled over the half-court line just before Bavetta made a headfirst dive.

Barkley, whose gambling exploits have been well-documented, looked at the oversized check donated to charity for the event and commented it was “two blackjack hands.” [/quote]

I thought this whole thing was too funny. Precious even. Except when they kissed each other on the lips at the end. What was up with that?? :O

Complete story, and must-see video at ESPN:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/allstar2007/news/story?id=2769894