The world’s fastest times for the marathon have been dropping since the distance of 26.2 miles was made official nearly one hundred years ago. But after a noticeable decline that occurred for a half century, the times, while still edging lower, have stalled several minutes north of two hours for the past decade.
For the first time, 1:59 examines what it will take for an elite distance runner to go sub two hours. It will require more than raw talent, optimal body size, and great athletic genes. ...