People run for a variety of different reasons, such as for weight loss, exercise, or just to stay in shape. For Army Capt. Kaitlyn Hernandez, however, it was for the purpose of setting a new world record.
Hernandez strapped on a 96-pound bomb suit and ran a mile in 10 minutes and 23 seconds. She managed to break the record at the second annual bomb suit run at Georgian Mason University in Virginia.
Most people in the Army are capable of running a mile in under 10 minutes. Then again, strapping on an extra 100 pounds was something that took a lot of preparation. As the commander of the 717th Ordinance Company, 52nd Ordnance Group, Hernandez was up for the challenge.
The suits are not necessarily made for running. They are made to protect bomb disposal technicians from any blast that occurs in close proximity. As you can imagine, the equipment is imperative for their safety but it is extremely heavy and takes a lot of preparation just to wear it.
She shared on Instagram, “The hours of training, early mornings, crappy weather conditions, and all the literal blood, sweat, and tears came down to just 4 laps.”
Hernandez started to train for the event months in advance. She was accustomed to doing a CrossFit workout, but she added to her training session by running in the suit every week.
Along with her own efforts, she had the support of a nonprofit organization, Headstrong. They help support veterans and their families with mental health treatment.
Prior to the time that Hernandez broke this record, it was set at 11 minutes and six seconds in September 2013. 1st Lt. Ashley Sorenson went the distance in Hawaii and happens to be close friends with Hernandez. They were stationed together in Hawaii and often play rugby together.
In the end, Sorenson gave Hernandez some advice, telling her: “just to try and stay calm and remember it’s only four more laps.” With the right perspective, she was able to complete the run and set the record.