Jacob Kiplimo's record-breaking performance in Barcelona marked a historic milestone in half marathon running, as he became the first athlete to break the 57-minute barrier12. The Ugandan runner's time of 56:41 shattered the previous world record by an astounding 49 seconds, representing the largest single improvement in the event's history23.

• Kiplimo's average pace was approximately 2:41 per kilometer2

• He also set a world best of 39:47 for the 15km mark during his run12

• The race took place under ideal conditions: 13°C (55°F) with no wind23

• Kiplimo expressed surprise at breaking the record, stating he had only aimed for a "great race"12

Jacob Kiplimo's record-breaking performance was the result of a well-executed strategy and ideal racing conditions. Running in Barcelona with a temperature of 13°C (55°F) and no wind, Kiplimo started strong and maintained a blistering pace throughout the race12. He passed through the 15km mark in a world-best time of 39:47, demonstrating his ability to sustain an unprecedented speed over the half-marathon distance1. Kiplimo's approach was to push himself from the start, telling reporters, "As the kilometres passed and I saw that I was going at record pace, I told myself that I had to maintain that pace no matter what it took."1 This aggressive strategy, combined with his exceptional fitness and the favorable weather conditions, allowed Kiplimo to achieve the largest single improvement in the men's half-marathon world record to date.

Barcelona's Half Marathon is renowned for its fast, flat course and typically favorable weather conditions, making it an ideal setting for record-breaking performances. The race usually takes place in February, offering runners optimal temperatures around 10-12°C (50-54°F), which is considered ideal for marathon and half-marathon events12. The course features long straight stretches with minimal turns and elevation changes, allowing runners to maintain a consistent pace3.

Key factors contributing to Barcelona's race-friendly environment include:

• Mild temperatures: February in Barcelona typically provides perfect running conditions4.

• Low humidity: Dry conditions help prevent overheating5.

• Minimal wind: The city's layout often shields runners from strong winds6.

• Flat terrain: The course's minimal elevation changes reduce fatigue3.

• Urban setting: The city's architecture provides some shade and wind protection4.

These conditions have contributed to impressive performances, demonstrating the city's potential for fast times across all levels of competition.