This dataset includes results of performances by athletes competing in global competitions since 1896 (1267 men and 803 women). All had won at least one medal at a major global championships or set a World Record (WR) ratified by World Athletics as of March 1st, 2025. World Best marathon times from before 2004 were considered WRs provided they were accepted by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). Analysed athletes competed in sprint, distance, and hurdling events.<p></p>