What money can buy: technology and breaking the two-hour ‘marathon’ record

Abstract

ABSTRACT On 12 October 2019, Kenyan runner Eliud Kipchoge became the first person to run a ‘marathon’, known as the INEOS 1:59 Challenge, in less than 2 hours in a time of 1:59:40.2. However, his time was not ratified as a world record by World Athletics. We not only explain why this phenomenal achievement was not recognized as a legitimate record but argue his sub 2-h ‘marathon’ run produced a meaningless ‘record’ because the feat was not part of a contest. His run was an experiment or time trial spectacle backed by the best scientists, technology, organizers, athletes, conditions, and media coverage money can buy. Four areas buttress our argument: the selective use of technology, the concept of a record, the distinction between a test and contest, and the meaning of a marathon. We conclude by presenting an account of what makes a marathon record meaningful.