Time is of the essence when it comes to the May issue of AW, which examines the art of breaking barriers.

With it being the 70th anniversary of Roger Bannister breaking the four-minute mile we look back at that landmark moment through his eyes, as well delving into why numbers – and the pursuit of new goals – matter so much when it comes to athletics.
And which big records are likely to fall next? The AW team give their thoughts.

Jamaican sprinters have become world renowned for record breaking and setting new standards on the track. Euan Crumley visits the island nation to find out a little more about the culture that produces so many champions.

From a chat on the beach with Usain Bolt to a night at “Champs”, the high school event like no other, and insight from coach Reynaldo Walcott about how he guides greats such as Elaine Thompson-Herah and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, we have just about every angle covered when it comes to this corner of the Caribbean.

Another leader in their chosen field is Jasmin Paris, the understated athlete achieving great things in ultra marathon running. Her latest remarkable feat is becoming the first woman to complete the notoriously difficult Barkley Marathons. In a special extended edition of our regular How They Train feature, the busy mother of two and full-time vet tells Katy Barden how she manages to juggle it all.

Katharine Merry also gives her thoughts on World Athletics’ move to pay Olympic gold medallists in Paris, while Cathal Dennehy addresses the problems facing the Diamond League, Carol Jackson shares her thoughts on the art of coaching and long-time results editor Steve Smythe looks back on his journey through the sport as he prepares for retirement.