In an inspiring bid to push the boundaries of women’s athletics, three-time Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon is set to attempt something unprecedented: becoming the first woman to break the four-minute mile barrier. This ambitious challenge is scheduled for Thursday, June 26, in Paris, and while it won’t count as an official world record due to the nature of the event, it symbolizes a significant leap for female athletes everywhere.
At 31 years old, Kipyegon is no stranger to breaking records. With her current official mile record standing at a swift 4 minutes and 7.64 seconds, which she set earlier in 2023, the task ahead is daunting—she’ll need to shave off more than seven seconds to achieve her goal. However, her determination is palpable. Drawing from the legacy of Sir Roger Bannister, who first conquered the sub-four barrier in 1954, Kipyegon looks to cement her own place in history.
When: Today, Thursday, June 26
Where: Stade Sébastien Charléty in Paris, France
Time: 1:15 PM ET
Live Stream: Prime Video and Nike’s YouTube channel
But what does running a sub-four-minute mile actually entail? For context, a mile is 1609 meters, which means Kipyegon will need to maintain an average pace that is approximately two seconds faster per lap on a standard 400-meter track. It’s a tall order that requires extraordinary talent and preparation.
To optimize her chances, Kipyegon will rely on a team of rotating pacemakers to shield her from the wind and enhance her speed. This strategy isn’t new; it’s a method often used by elite athletes to create optimal racing conditions. Kipyegon’s commitment reflects her desire not just to achieve a personal milestone but to inspire women around the world to dream big. “I think, ‘What else can I do?’ Why not dream outside the box?” she expressed, illustrating her belief in the importance of challenging norms in athletics.
Kipyegon’s pursuit also connects to the rich history of women’s track and field. While she aims for this extraordinary feat, we’re reminded of Diane Leather, the first woman to break the five-minute barrier in 1954. Kipyegon’s attempt echoes the monumental achievements of athletes like Eliud Kipchoge, who in 2019 famously ran a marathon in under two hours—also not recognized as an official record, but a milestone nonetheless.
Her accolades don’t stop at the mile; Kipyegon has consistently proven her prowess as a middle-distance runner. She made history by winning the gold in the 1500 meters at three consecutive Olympics, reflecting her elite status in the sport. Additionally, she boasts three World 1500m titles and secured gold in the 5000 meters at the 2023 World Championships. Remarkably, five of her gold medals have come after she gave birth to her daughter, Alyn, in 2018, further exemplifying her resilience and drive.
As Kipyegon gears up for this monumental attempt, the sentiment is clear: she is not just chasing a record. She aims to demonstrate to young girls everywhere that dreams are valid and achievable, no matter how lofty they may be. With her unwavering spirit and pioneering efforts, Kipyegon is poised to make history once again.
