Every year at some point in the season, the endless loop of the track finds its end.
And the field is suddenly barren.
But the beasts of the road quickly pick up the scraps and power down the pavement in the caliber of races that require anxiety, preplanned stress — and speed.
Copenhagen proved it was up to code at last weekend's 2026 World Athletics Road Running Championships, which simply consumed the city in six races that delivered step after step.
Upsets were served in the men's mile and men's 5K and dominance reigned supreme in the women's half.
It was a needed reminder that the sidewalks are the arena, offered free admission and were jammed in Copenhagen.
What it means is more majors like Berlin and Chicago on the menu and stunners like Valencia are coming.
And the warriors are approaching.
