This year at the 2026 Fifty West Mile, we’re partnering with ASICS and 1N5 to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Running a Blue Jean Mile for mental health awareness was the idea of professional middle-distance runner, Johnny Gregorek. In May 2020, when all races and competitions were put on pause, Gregorek was itching for a challenge. He wanted to push himself physically while also honoring and celebrating the life of his late brother, Patrick. Gregorek decided to try and break the record for the fastest mile run in a pair of blue jeans, the perfect way to blend Patrick’s sense of humor with Gregorek’s own life and livelihood. Armed with a pair of custom, denim-accented ASICS spikes inscribed with Patrick’s name and, of course, his Levi’s 501 jeans, Gregorek ran a blazing 4:06 mile, breaking the 4:11 world record. More importantly, he raised over $14,000 in the process.
Fast forward 5 years, the ASICS Blue Jean Mile has evolved into a global initiative with the goal of making each mile run, a step towards more awareness and more funds for mental health awareness. To commemorate this year’s Blue Jean Mile, ASICS and Pig Works will make a joint donation to 1N5.
How You Can Participate
Register for the 2026 Fifty West Mile and select "Yes" when asked if you'd like to participate in the Blue Jean Mile. If you are already registered, please email registration@flyingpigmarathon.com to update your registration.
At the Fifty West Mile, a “Blue Jean” heat will kick off event. On race day, simply wear a pair of jeans and make your way to the Blue Jean corral, located closest to the start line. We look forward to you joining us as we raise awareness for mental health through this unique running challenge.
