Keely Hodgkinson leads a field of 800m runners. Image accompanying BBC Sport Athletics’ report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
The women's 800m world record, held by Jarmila Kratochvilova since 1983, has not been broken in 43 years. Despite advancements in shoe technology and nutrition, the record remains intact.
Great Britain's Keely Hodgkinson, one of the top middle-distance runners, is competing at the European Athletics Championships. Her time of 1:54.87 is the sixth-fastest in history, but still far from Kratochvilova's record. Read more racing coverage.
Innovations in sports science have improved athletes' performance, but the 800m record remains elusive. Experts suggest better shoe technology and understanding of nutrition have contributed to faster times. Related: Hodgkinson Second Favorite for 800m Gold in Birmingham.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from BBC Sport Athletics. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about Why the Women's 800m Record Remains Unbroken for 43 Years?
Despite advancements in technology and sports science, the women's 800m record remains untouched. The women's 800m world record, held by Jarmila Kratochvilova since 1983, has not been broken in 43 years. Despite advancements in shoe technology and nutrition, the record remains intact.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 12, 2026. The underlying BBC Sport Athletics report was dated August 12, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from BBC Sport Athletics. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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