From the UO Special Archives

Monthly features are provided by Lauren Goss, Athletics Archivist at the University of Oregon's Special Collections and University Archives

First Sub-4 Mile on U.S. Soil

May 5, 1956, marks a significant date in the history of track and field at the University of Oregon. On that day, James “Jim” Bailey became the first person to run a sub-four-minute mile (3:58.6) on U.S. soil. The first of many sub-four-minute milers coached by Bill Bowerman, Bailey competed in a special mile exhibition race held during a USC-UCLA dual meet at the Los Angeles Coliseum. The race featured Ron Delany (Villanova), world mile record holder John Landy (Australia), and fellow Oregon runner Bill Dellinger.

An Australian national champion in the 880 yards, Bailey thrived under Bowerman’s coaching and captured the 1955 NCAA mile title with a time of 4:05.6. Yet few expected him to defeat his fellow Australian or to break the four-minute barrier. As reported:

“A crowd of 38,543 people started the roar of disbelief, the press box found it hard to comprehend what they were watching, but it kept right on happening – Bailey was catching Landy. On the final turn Bailey caught him, slapped him on the hip, said ‘Let’s go’ and then went on to finish a feat not a person would have given a lead nickel for less than five minutes before.”

Eugene Register-Guard, May 6, 1956, page 1B

The following day Bailey returned to triumphant celebrations held in Eugene:

“Darrel Brittsan, newly-elected student body president, presided as master of ceremonies. After a few introductory remarks, Brittsan asked Bailey how it felt to run a four-minute mile.

            ‘How do you explain a thing like that?’ Bailey answered.”

Oregon Daily Emerald, May 7, 1956, page 3

A recording of the race is available through the University of Oregon’s archival media platform.