The original Star Wars characters: Who would be the fastest in the galaxy?

Who would win a 100m dash between Yoda and an ewok?

Could Lando outlast Luke in the marathon?

We consider some of (the original) Star Wars characters and made predictions on who would likely have come out on top when it comes to getting around the galaxy… Really though it was just a timely excuse to watch some Star Wars clips and laugh at all the greats gifs that exist on the internet.

CONTENDERS

Luke Skywalker

Let’s start with a safe bet: Skywalker. Once he decided to pursue the whole Jedi thing, Luke underwent some serious training on Degobah. Under the guidance (and literal weight) of Yoda, Luke began to learn the ways of the the Force whilst undergoing an intense training regimen. Given his excellent physical fitness, we know he’d be a natural at something like cross-fit but we bet that fitness would also translate to some good foot speed too.

Han Solo

Solo was no schlmo. After all, he did make the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs*! You don’t live your life as one of the galaxies most notorious smugglers and not learn a thing or two about running (mostly away from things). Han was also brash and occasionally arrogant which would have served him well when intimidating his competitors. We estimate Han would have been a top age-grouper out on the roads.

Princess Leia

Perhaps not an obvious candidate, Princess Leia could be a dark horse as a runner. Her sheer determination, can-do attitude and commitment to whatever she sets her mind too gives her favourable running characteristics. It doesn’t hurt that she also has a genetic predisposition to the Force.

Lando Calrissian

Lando was arguably the coolest character in all of Star Wars. Actually no, he WAS the coolest character! He’s stylish, savvy and leads an entire city in the clouds (i.e. he’s heavenly). He was also a mean starship pilot, negotiator and undercover agent. What does all that have to do with running? Nothing at all, but still, we imagine he’d hold his own on any starting line and if nothing else, he would look strong and smooth as he coasted towards the finish.

Honourable mentions: Boba Fett, Darth Vader and Chewbacca

PRETENDERS

Yoda

Yoda may have been able to move back in his day, but now, at over 900 years of age (and still looking pretty good), we are skeptical of his skill set. Still undeniably wise and strong in the ways of the Force, we just don’t think his years of isolation, hidden away in a swamp have left him in good physical condition. Also – SPOILER ALERT – he dies in ROTJ!

Stormtroopers

Never mind that their clunky, cumbersome (and not at all effective) armour would be a major disadvantage when trying to pick up the pace, their seemingly total lack of accuracy and hand-eye coordination would likely be their downfall. Also, where would they attach their race bibs?

Ewoks

Sure they probably had some amazing running trails on Endor, but the ewoks suffered the unfortunate fate of poor biomechanical makeup. Their legs were too short and stubby for efficient running and caused an almost woddle-like gait. Still though, they could dance up a space storm.

Jabba the Hutt

Enough said.

Other also-rans: C-3PO, Ben (Obi-Wan) Kenobi and Admiral Ackbar

* We know, we know, a parsec is a unit of distance, not time. Still, it’s a classic quote.