Lee Riley sets mile world record to honour our war heroes

Lee Riley now holds three world records

Lee had faced lots of doubters and negative thoughts because of the narrow time margins for error over a mile, but talking beforehand he said “this is my time to perform, this is my day, let’s give my supporters, cameras and the press a performance worth witnessing.”

He certainly did that at the Cumberland sports ground in Crewe, supported by dozens of family, friends and well-wishers, including Olympic Gold medallist Ann Brightwell MBE (formerly Packer), Lee knocked 19 seconds off the record, finishing in a time of 5 minutes 16.9 seconds. Lee was wearing his poppy on his vest with extreme pride, doing this run for the soldiers of Britain, past and present. Supporting the Royal British Legion is close to Lee’s heart, “this is a victory for you guys, and I salute you.”

To achieve a time of 5 minutes 16.9 seconds with the equivalent of 2 car tyres strapped to your back is astonishing. Speaking after the run, Lee said: “I feel fresh, as if I could run it again under 5 minutes 35 seconds “

“I did far better than I expected. It’s like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders after eight weeks of intensive training and sacrifice! I have never felt pressure like it!”

Watching from the side lines Ann Brightwell commented “I am thrilled to be here, I would not have missed it. He's made a tremendous achievement this morning and it can't be underestimated. To run just over five minutes for a mile is good but with that pack on your back it is inspirational. I couldn't even lift it, let alone wear it on my back. It feels like more than 40lb!"

The challenge and celebrations were captured on video and can be seen here on runbritain TV

Lee is already the holder of two world records, making him the only person ever to break and hold all three milestone World Records with a 40lb pack. These include the fastest ever mile, half marathon (13.1 miles) and the marathon (26.2 miles) and he has done them all this year.

Lee could not have raised awareness and money for the Royal British Legion by organising this event without the companies that have sponsored and supported him. These included: Lowe Alpine, Mornflakes, Crewe Audi, CAT (Finning), HS Sports, Adidas, Sweatshop and Berghaus.

Real Internet Director John Cowan videoed the whole event. It will be aired on You Tube for the Britain in a Day project and may be included in the final documentary to be aired next year.

Lee intends to continue on with challenges so look out what’s to follow as he finalises his Olympic year plans and beyond.

Help him to make a difference by supporting him on his justgiving page.