World Record (WR)
The fastest time ever officially recorded for a specific distance globally, ratified by World Athletics.
What is a World Record?
A World Record (WR) represents the absolute pinnacle of human performance in running. For a time to be recognized as a WR, it must be achieved on a certified course that meets strict criteria regarding start/finish separation and net elevation loss.
Famous Marathon World Records
- Men: 2:00:35 - Kelvin Kiptum (Chicago, 2023)
- Women (Mixed): 2:09:56 - Ruth Chepngetich (Chicago, 2024)
- Women (Only): 2:16:16 - Peres Jepchirchir (London, 2024)
Ratification Criteria
To prevent "fast" downhill or tailwind courses from distorting the record books, World Athletics requires:
- Elevation Loss: The course must not drop more than 1 meter per kilometer.
- Separation: The start and finish points must not be further apart than 50% of the race distance (to prevent records set with a massive tailwind on a straight road).
The Sub-2 Barrier
In 2019, Eliud Kipchoge ran 1:59:40 in Vienna. However, this is NOT a World Record because it was set in a controlled exhibition (rotating pacers, delivery of drinks by bike) that didn't meet race criteria. It remains the fastest marathon distance ever run by a human.
No human is limited. — Eliud Kipchoge
World Record (WR)
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Related Terms
Course Record (CR)
The fastest time ever recorded by an athlete on a specific, officially measured race course.
Elite Runner
A professional or semi-professional athlete who competes for prize money and typically runs at a pace unimaginable to the average human.
National Record (NR)
The fastest time ever recorded by an athlete representing a specific country for a recognized distance.
Race & Results
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