ACTN3 CC – Origins of a Sprinter?

History is cool. My parents passed away at a relatively early age when I was young so I never got to share with them the things about them that make me what I am. I remember them telling me little snippets of their lives and family stories. They were both athletic. I know my Dad played HS football, and my mom played softball for Galileo high school (our football rival in my days). But I do miss the opportunity to discuss these things with them now.

Socially and culturally we all know who we are. When people ask it is typically a pretty quick response, "I’m black… … from an inner-city… … parents are from the south… ...blah blah blah." But sometimes you may ask yourself "where did I originate… …who am I?"

So a couple years ago I had my DNA tested so I could learn more about my past. The largest portion of my ancestry was 48% West African (68% Sub-Saharan African total), Wahoo! That was followed by 26% European, and 4 % East Asian and Native American. Cool huh?

One of the most interesting findings was that I have two copies of the alpha-actinin-3 gene (CC) which produce protein which means I have one type of fast-twitch muscle fiber. This means my fast-twitch muscles (white muscle fibers) have a very efficient metabolism and require less oxygen for energy production.

Studies of elite sprint athletes show that they have at least one copy of this gene. Absence of two of these genes is an advantage for endurance athletes which allow their muscles to rely on efficient oxygen consumption.  

Now that is just the genetic side of the coin. Environment can then determine the other 40-60% of your abilities. So in an effort to embrace my past I felt compelled to give sprinting a try. Hence, my current quest… …three years to see what is possible.  That is how I am currently choosing to connect with my past.