The race, due to take place on May 24, was launched today at Paddington Recreation Ground, and will mark Cram's historic achievement where he shattered the world mile record with a time of 3min 46.32sec in the Dream Mile at Oslo's Bislett Stadium in July 1985.

His triumph in Norway marked the start of a superb 19-day period for the athlete in which he set three different world records.

"The mile is the perfect distance for any age and any ability," Cram said.

"It's wonderful to see so many young athletes here today inspired by what I did 30 years ago.

"I'm looking forward to seeing thousands of runners, young and old, running the mile in May."

Runners of all ages will be able to take part in the BUPA Westminster Mile, where they will contest a series of races at St James' Park, which start on the mall and finish in front of one of London's most famous landmarks, Buckingham Palace.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Steve Cram setting a world mile record at Oslo ©Getty Images



Youngsters who win the Junior Championships in the under-15, under-17 and under-20 age-group categories will also be offered a sponsorship contract with sportswear giant Adidas.

"We have set a target of 9,000 plus entries for this year to make this the biggest timed mile event in the world," event director Hugh Brasher said.

"In support of the 'This Girl Can' campaign, there will be a number of all-female races for girls and women of all abilities, including the opportunity for mums to run with their daughters, sisters, friends and family."

Entries for the BUPA Westminster Mile, which is an Olympic legacy event, are now open, and all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part.

The entry fee is £8.00 ($12/€10) for entrants aged 18 and over (£7.00 ($10/€9)for Westminster residents) and £6.00 ($9/€8) for nine to 17-year-olds (£5.00 ($8/€7) for Westminster residents), while children under nine are free.

For further information and to enter click here. 

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