In this instant reaction episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, recorded just minutes after Nike’s Breaking4 event in Paris, we unpack what really happened on and off the track. 

We start with the electric atmosphere inside the stadium and Nike’s high-stakes investment in Faith Kipyegon’s historic attempt to become the first woman to run a sub-4-minute mile (02:00). We share our exclusive access to the event, including a surreal pre-race walk on the track and a behind-the-scenes look at the Innovation Day showcasing the speed suit, spikes, and printed sports bra designed specifically for this attempt (13:45). 

We discuss Kipyegon’s lap-by-lap pacing breakdown (24:00), debate whether the technology helped or hindered (34:15), and explore the psychological dynamics of racing without competition (46:00). 

We also break down Kipchoge’s mesmerizing talk about the power of belief (18:00). Finally, we dig into the press conference, what comes next for Nike and Faith, and whether this was a brilliant step forward or an expensive misfire (58:00). Plus, our predictions on when and how the sub-4 barrier will finally fall (1:10:00).

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