That was out-standing. Charles Barkley could be a stand-up comic, easily. Surprisingly, Sir Charles beat Dick Bavetta in the three-and-a-half court lengths race, turning around and backpedaling across the finish line to prove his dominance (and toppling over on his rear in the process). Barkley was so gassed at the end, he couldn't even talk to TNT's Ernie Johnson, ceding the mic to Bavetta, who seemed quite capable of winning a two-of-three competition.

It was hysterical. I can only hope this turns into an annual thing, where Barkley takes on America's elderly community in a variety of challenges. The event was all in good fun, as summed up by the Round Mound of Rebound himself, who stated before the race: "I have nothing but love for old people. I hope to be one of them some day."

There will be much better photography of the event later on, but from my seat up in the nosebleeds (can you believe Hawks.com doesn't get a front-row seat with ESPN.com?), this is the best I can do.

The three-point contest is coming up, which is by far my favorite part of the evening in a typical year. We definitely have to get Joe to do this sometime soon, I think he could be a dark-horse candidate.

Barkley and Bavetta toe the starting line - you can see Charles about to false start

Barkley's ego may remain unbruised, but I think his tailbone may need some ice...