Roger Bannister

Roger Bannister (1929 – 2018) was a British middle-distance athlete and neurologist who will forever be remembered for his athletic prowess. On 6 May 1954, he became the first person to run a mile in under four minutes, a feat which had been considered impossible until then. His record-breaking time was 3:59.4.

Early life and education

Bannister was born in Harrow, England, on 23 March 1929. He attended University College School, before going on to study medicine at the University of Oxford's Exeter College. He later received his Master's degree from St Mary's Hospital Medical School, now part of Imperial College London.

Athletics career

Bannister's interest in running began at school, but it was during his time at Oxford that he started to train seriously. He first came to public attention in 1951 when he won the mile at the AAA Championships. His performance at the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki, where he finished fourth in the 1500 metres, set the stage for his record-breaking run two years later.

Medical career

After retiring from athletics, Bannister pursued a successful career in neurology. He worked at several hospitals in London, including the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and St Mary's Hospital. He also served as the Master of Pembroke College, Oxford from 1985 to 1993.

Legacy

Bannister's sub-four-minute mile is considered one of the greatest achievements in athletics. His determination and dedication continue to inspire athletes around the world. In 2012, he was made an Honorary Fellow of Exeter College, Oxford, in recognition of his contribution to sport and medicine.

See also

• List of people who have broken the four-minute mile
• History of athletics (sport)

References

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  Roger Bannister

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  Sir Roger Bannister plaque in Paddington Recreation Ground

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  Roger Bannister 1953

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  Roger Bannister and John Landy at Iffley Road on the 50th anniversary of the four minute mile 6 May 2004

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  Iffley Road Track, Oxford - blue plaque

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  Bannister and Landy

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  The grave of Roger Bannister, Wolvercote Cemetery

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  Roger Bannister with family 1959

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  Roger Bannister memorial stone