The first sub-two hour marathon https://www.npr.org/2019/10/12/769732863/eliud-kipchoge-dashes-past-2-hour-marathon-barrier-in-assisted-event
The women's world record also fell today https://www.npr.org/2019/10/13/769917804/kenyan-brigid-kosgei-smashes-womens-world-record-at-chicago-marathon
As with many things, there's a backstory that has moved to the front. This is a video news story about the Nike Vaporfly, the shoe worn by the winners in these stories. Questions have been raised as to whether the technology of the shoe gives the wearer an unfair advantage, If you're interested in sports and want to learn a bit about materials science it's worth a watch. https://digg.com/video/why-is-nikes-vaporfly-the-most-controversial-shoe-in-america Of course, they're flying off the shelves at $250. per pair
Armand Duplantis sets a new world record in the men's pole vault https://www.bbc.com/sport/athletics/51429055
He's a progeny. His dad was also a vaulter. That tells me that technique had a lot to do with this, so there's still more room for improvement. (Due to improvements in technology, technique, and fitness.) In other words, he's not a freak (like Bob Beaman). He's just the next in line. But it's his; he earned it!
In 2019 the winning jump in the Massachusetts boys championships was 13'-6." You have to be a really good athlete to make that jump. So adding almost 7 feet to that is really hard to imagine. As an event it tests strength, agility and speed. Being good at just one will get you nowhere. It's fun to watch. BTW, the winning girl's jump was 13'-0" The women's world record is 16'-6.75"
Never did track and field, but always wanted to try doing a pole vault. Can't imagine launching yourself that high though.
