My father, who worked in Africa for many years, had a story. Upon finding that the flight was massively over-booked, the crew organised a race for the passengers. Once round the aircraft, and those who got to the steps first, got to board.
Implausible? My Dad never knowingly said anything untrue; besides, there was no need to make stuff up as there was no end of crazy-but-true stories from 60s / 70s Africa.
25F
Your Father did not lie or embellish a tale. I have also seen that on a flight in Nigeria in late 1980,s. It is quite something when you see one of the larger Mama Benze,s in full regalia and built on the larger size running around a 737 desperately trying to out pace smaller and more nimble rivals.
I have also witnessed the fire department use water to brush people of the landing gear when there was a semi sit in / occupation when their flight was cancelled, and they observed an A/C from same carrier getting ready to go elsewhere.
Cheers
Mr Mac