WWU Student James Jasperson to Attempt World Record June 11

Western Washington University junior James Jasperson of Olympia will be attempting his second world record at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11 on the track at the Wade King Recreation Center.

Jasperson, a Kinesiology major at WWU and a paid volunteer firefighter with the South Whatcom Fire Authority, is trying to beat the fastest mile run in full firefighter gear; the previous record is nine minutes and 40 seconds. He will attempt the mile while wearing approximately 65 pounds worth of equipment including firefighter structural gear, steel-toed boots with a one-inch-thick rubber sole, and a self-contained breathing apparatus. 

This world-record attempt is meant to bring attention to and raise money for Four Season Fighters, a nonprofit organization that helps firefighters, police officers, and veterans whose lives have been permanently altered because of the sacrifices they've made while serving their country or communities. Jasperson hopes to raise $1,000 for this cause.

Jasperson already holds the world record in the mile while wearing only firefighter structural gear, not including the air pack or breathing mask. He set this record last summer and ran a staggering five-minute and 51-second mile.

“My friend Zach, who I met when I first got into the fire service, helped start this nonprofit and I tried to find ways to help. I have a goal that I know is going to be a struggle for me but I thrive under pressure and I know I have to make it happen,” Jasperson said.

For more information about the record contact James Jasperson at jasperj4@wwu.edu. For more information on how to donate to Four Season Fighters visit www.fourseasonfighters.org/donate.