Roger Bannister

Roger Gilbert Bannister (born March 23, 1929) was a British athlete best known as the first man to run the mile in less than four minutes. He was born in Harrow, Middlesex, England.

The achievement was called the "Miracle Mile" because some doubted a four-minute-mile was possible.

This historic event took place on May 6, 1954 during a meet between British AAA and Oxford University. With winds up to 25 miles per hour, the event was almost canceled. However, the persistent Bannister prevailed and was rewarded with the honor of running the "miracle mile." His time was 3:59.4. The race was paced by Chris Brasher and Chris Chataway, both of whom went on to establish their own stellar track performances.

Bannister wore the number 41 on his jersey that day.