Nike sets out to break 2-hour marathon mark with three elite runners

Nike is teaming up with professional marathoners and scientists to try and break the two-hour marathon barrier.USA TODAY Sports

(Photo: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)The golden rule, well known among runners, is relatively simple — nothing new on race day.

But for a trio of elite marathoners aiming to make history, that axiom provides a complex challenge for Nike’s Breaking2 team.

Early Saturday morning, conditions permitting, the work of that team will be put to the test as Eliud Kipchoge, Zersenay Tadese and Lelisa Desisa attempt to become the first to break 2 hours in the marathon.

Supported by a Nike effort that for months has sought to best control the variables that can impact performance,…