Test of Tyrannosaurus speed - a modest proposal

[GSP1954@aol.com]

All these simulations and speculations about the speed of Tyrannosaurus are 
not going to solve for certain the question of whether it could run. More 
direct science is required. 

In order to arrive at a complete solution the first requirement is a time 
machine able to send paleontologists back at least 66 million years. 

Upon arriving in the Maastrichtian of western North America a simple 
experiment can be conducted. 

A Tyrannosaurus minding its business in the middle of a large field will be 
located. 

Those who think that Tyrannosaurus was slow - your Hutchinsons, Brochus, 
Horners and so forth - can serve as volunteers. No doubt they will be happy 
to do so in the name of science. It is recommended that the subject/s engage 
in some sprint training, running shoes and attire will be supplied for their 
convenience.  

One of these brave fellows will run into the field drawing the attention of 
the tyrannosaur and approaching within a few meters. He or she can should be 
dabbed with the blood of a herbivorous dinosaur to enhance the desired 
effect. 

If the Tyrannosaurus is a scavenger then it will fail to pursue the subject. 
If it is slow hunter then the paleontologist will be able to outrun the 
dinosaur. In either case the subject will not be in danger and will enjoy 
having their view on the subject sustained. Of course, in science 
verification by repetition is the gold standard, so the additional volunteers 
will be sent out one by one to further test and verify the hypothesis. Have 
to be sure, of course. 

If on the other hand the tyrannosaur does outrun and catch the subject then 
the hypotheses that it was a scavenger and/or slower than humans will be 
falsified. Verification by repetition is still required so the rest of the 
volunteers will be sent out to support the hypothesis that Tyrannosaurus was 
a fast hunter. 

Of course, those who support the fast hunter hypothesis - your Pauls, 
Holtzes, Christiansens, Blancos et al - will be happy to do their part in 
this noble experiment. We'll carefully and fully document and record the 
events from an  armored vehicle hidden in the woods. 

Those wishing to participate in this exciting experiment please start by 
contributing to preparing the NSF proposal. Main funding can come via Fox's 
new upcoming hit reality series Extreme Paleo. 

GSP