leapers

a rare double-leap at the Ghost Run Half-Marathon in Hebron, CT

I've been photographing at races for nearly a year now, and here's a fun little phenomenon I've had the pleasure of observing more than a few times: the leap. At first I was only seeing it in ultras, so in my head I started calling it the Ultra Leap. But I've since witnessed it at several trail races as well, and even in the occasional half-marathon and 10K too. So now my question is, does anybody know whether the leap is anything more than just spontaneous moments of athletic exuberance, or did I maybe miss a meme somewhere? Please let me know your thoughts! Whatever the inspiration, I have to say it totally makes my day when it happens. So, the next time you see me (tall, skinny, doofusy-looking guy with a camera) taking your photo at a race... consider trying a leap; it's always fun and I'd love to see more!

leaper at the Cider Donut Run 10K in Amherst, MA

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leapers at 

1. Hancock Shaker Village 50-Mile Ultra in Pittsfield, MA

2. Firecracker Four-Miler in Brattleboro, VT

3. Mt. Toby Trail Run in Sunderland, MA

4. Blue Hills Skyline Trail Race in Milton, MA

Karna's SECOND leap, well into the Hancock Shaker Village 50-Mile Ultra in Pittsfield, MA

leaper at mile 47 of the Vermont 100 ultramarathon in Reading, VT