Duncan Cragg

Bio

Duncan Cragg is a legendary figure in the Dallas-Fort Worth running community, serving as store manager at Luke's Locker for over 30 years. Originally from South Africa, Duncan discovered distance running in elementary school and went on to become a world-class steeplechase specialist, competing at the highest levels during the final years of apartheid. Recruited by SMU's track team in the early 1990s, Duncan brought his unique training philosophy shaped by integrated running groups that defied apartheid-era segregation laws. His athletic journey led him from the high-altitude training grounds of South Africa to American collegiate competition, where he specialized in the 3000-meter steeplechase. After graduating from SMU, Duncan channeled his passion for running into the specialty retail industry, becoming one of the pioneers in gait analysis and running shoe fitting. His expertise spans three decades of technological evolution in running footwear, from basic polyurethane models to today's carbon-plated super shoes. Beyond his professional role at Luke's Locker, Duncan has created an innovative family running program at White Rock Lake's Norbuck Park, bringing parents and children together for mindful, non-competitive outdoor exercise. His philosophy emphasizes the journey over performance, natural movement over structured training, and community building through shared athletic experiences. Duncan's contributions to the Dallas running community extend to organizing all-comers track meets featuring rare events like the steeplechase, continuing Luke's Locker's 40-year tradition of grassroots athletics. He advocates for "parkour-style" running that prioritizes play, exploration, and staying connected to the pure joy of movement.