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Keely Hodgkinson has explained how Faith Kipyegon will forever change the dynamics of middle-distance running following her recent Breaking 4 mile attempt in Paris.
On June 26, Faith Kipyegon came agonisingly close to making history at the Breaking4 event in Paris, aiming to become the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes.
Clocking a remarkable 4:06.42, she shattered her own previous best of 4:07.64 but fell short of breaking the iconic barrier.
Despite the result, Kipyegon's courageous attempt captivated the athletics world. The event featured male pacers, high-tech pacing systems, and a custom race setup—designed to give her the best chance possible.
Though not eligible for official world record recognition, the run was symbolic, signaling what the future may hold for women’s middle-distance running.
Hodkingson: Kipyegon Inspired a Generation
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British 800m star Keely Hodgkinson, who was present in Paris and helped host the event coverage, shared her admiration for Kipyegon’s bold challenge.
“I was nervous the whole time but also so excited,” Hodgkinson said. “What I’ll take away the most is the courage it took to think outside the box. It only takes one person to dream big and go for it.
“She did that. It’s scary putting your goals out there, especially when the whole world is watching.”
From the moment the race started, Kipyegon looked focused and composed. “She’s got big strides and an aura,” Hodgkinson added.
“She got out hard and stayed locked in. I loved how she said even if it’s not her, it could be someone else. That kind of mindset leaves a legacy. It makes people believe.”
Hodgkinson: People Don’t Understand The Pressure on The Line
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Hodgkinson also spoke about the mental challenge of time-based racing, saying, “There’s so much pressure when you’re chasing the clock.
“You think about every split, every second. I’ve run my best races when I forgot the clock and just raced. I heard she doesn’t want to know her times mid-race—and honestly, I don’t blame her.”
Though the sub-4 mark remains unbroken, Kipyegon’s performance drew praise from across the athletic community. Her bold effort—against a historic barrier—has inspired renewed belief that the feat is within reach, if not by her, then by another athlete she’s helped empower.
“It’s within my grasp,” Kipyegon said after the race. “I just have to keep chasing it.”
And chase it she will. Whether it’s Kipyegon or another trailblazer who eventually breaks the mark, this attempt has already achieved something just as powerful: changing what the world believes is possible.
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