In a fitting tribute to Sir Roger Bannister, the first man to break the four-minute mile, Oxford University will celebrate the 70th anniversary of this historic athletic achievement by introducing a unique steeplechase mile event. The celebration, scheduled for May 6th at the Iffley Road Centre, will blend tradition with innovation in a day filled with races, a community mile, and a Mile Fair, complete with a one-day museum showcasing mile-record-breaking memorabilia.

The newly added one-mile steeplechase race is set to challenge participants with four laps of the track, each featuring three-foot-high fixed wooden hurdles and a water-jump. This event not only honors Bannister’s legacy but also nods to Oxford's own history as the birthplace of the modern steeplechase. The race offers a unique test for experienced steeplechasers and middle-distance runners alike, providing a fresh twist on the classic distance.

Thurstan Bannister, son of Sir Roger, expressed enthusiasm about the new addition. "The one mile has been a cornerstone of British athletics for well over a century. Introducing a steeplechase version brings an exciting dimension to this celebration year. With the shorter distance but the added challenge of hurdles, it’s going to be intriguing to see how the athletes handle the race," he said.

Athletes wishing to participate can qualify based on their times in the 1500m or 3000m steeplechase, with consideration also given to the 2000m steeplechase performances. Entry standards are set at 3:50 for the 1500m and 9:00 for the 3000m steeplechase for men, and 4:30 for the 1500m and 11:00 for the 3000m steeplechase for women. Prize money will be awarded to the top three finishers in both the men’s and women’s races.

Registration for the event is open through the British Milers Club website, with elite athletes encouraged to contact Thomas Renshaw, co-director of Bannister Miles and OUCCC Secretary, for further details.

For more information on the event, visit the Bannister Miles website and follow their social media updates.

https://bannistermiles.org.uk/
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