Overview

• At Nike’s Breaking4 event in Paris on June 26, Kipyegon clocked a 4:06.42 mile—the fastest ever by a female runner—though the exhibition format and use of male pacemakers disqualify it from official ratification.
• She wore specially engineered gear including a Nike fly suit, a bespoke sports bra and ultra-light Victory 2 Elite FK spikes designed to reduce drag and weight.
• A team of mostly male elite pacemakers employed Wavelight pacing to shield Kipyegon from wind resistance and maintain the targeted lap splits.
• After crossing the line, Kipyegon said she would not lose hope and insisted the sub-four barrier will fall “one day, one time,” whether by her or another athlete.
• Nike’s chief innovation officer Tony Bignell confirmed that further sport-science advancements are in the works and that Kipyegon will compete in the 1500m at the upcoming Prefontaine Classic.