There have been several WR attempts this year, mostly over 800m, and of course Mondo in the PV. Mondo has an advantage however, as his attempts are specific, and he has a mark to shoot for. .Everyone else is taking a shot in the dark. So missing is understandable, as everything must go just right. The only success we’ve seen prior to London, was Keely Hodgkinson taking the indoor 800m record. Until London.
About four months ago, Josh Kerr told the world that he was taking aim at the mile record. A mark that has stood since 1999. A stunning 3:43.13. I’m old enough to have watched that race. Hicham ElGuerroug vs Noah Ngeny. Two extraordinary runners who waged a fantastic race which ended in the two fastest times ever run. Marks that stood as such for over a quarter century. For over twenty five years, this was the target for the world’s best milers with none getting close until Jakob Ingerbrigtsen and Yared Nuguse ran a stunning race of their own in 2023. They too ran under 3:44, becoming the 3rd and 4th fastest milers in history – but still missing the WR.
So Imust admit that when I heard Josh say that he was going to attack the record, I knew he was good. I thought that he would PR. Run something around 3:44, but I admit that I did not think he would succeed in his quest for the record. I was wrong, and I’m glad that I was wrong. I’m glad because records shouldn’t last that long. It’s good for the sport to have new marks and new stars rise up. I’m even more glad to see an athlete step up and be vocal about his ability and his goals and publicly go for it. This sport needs more Noah Lyles’, and now Josh Kerr, to bring the eyes of fans to track and field. The sporting world watched Kerr for months. Watched his training, his results, and finally his successful attempt. This is the kind of thing that track and field needs.
I applaud Josh and his outstanding 3:42.66. He didn’t just break the mark, he obliterated it! To other athletes I say that it’s ok to be bold and proud of who you are. The sport needs that energy right now. There are other events where athletes are getting close to records. Good luck to all of you. It’s ok to be loud and proud about your ability.
Tags: Kerr