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"Take 5" Foundation Director spotlight, featuring Mark JamesMark A. James is the President & CEO of Frias Holding Company established by Charles and Phyllis Frias over 47 years ago. Frias is the largest taxicab operator in Nevada, and runs five taxicab companies operating nearly 700 taxicabs in the Las Vegas area. An attorney and former Nevada State Senator and Clark County Commissioner, Mr. James has over 20 years experience advising Nevada businesses and public entities in business, environmental and other complex litigation matters. His diverse business law practice included business litigation, administrative and regulatory law, as well as property rights and natural resources. Mr. James received his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Lewis & Clark College and his Juris Doctor at the University of Arizona. Frias Holding Company actively supports a variety of community and charitable organizations. He currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada with his wife and their two children. We asked Mark for his thoughts on the following “Take 5” questions: Foundation: How did you become interested in track & field? MJ: In 1968, the Olympic Trials were held in South Lake Tahoe in an attempt to simulate conditions for the upcoming Games in Mexico City. I attended the Trials as a 9 year old with my dad, and because of his role in the Trials, I got to go on the field and mix with some of the athletes. I was fascinated with all of it, and in particular, the jumping events. I was soon competing in local meets and was dubbed “Bouncy Mr. James” by the Tahoe Tribune, for my love of jumping. Foundation: What is your favorite memory from competing in track & field? MJ: My dad (a local weatherman) was providing weather updates to athletes and the local area for the ’68 Trials, and had secured field passes. Dick Fosbury was jumping that day, and watching him with my dad is still a vivid memory. I can still see the pink tartan track. Foundation: Which track & field athlete did you look up to, and why? MJ: Bob Beamon was an idol for me. I’ve watched his world record-breaking Mexico City long jump over and over. Henry Hines was also a favorite. Foundation: What inspired you to get involved with the USA Track & Field Foundation? MJ: I consider participating on the Foundation Board an opportunity of a lifetime. It is a passion for me. When Mike Saltman (Foundation Director) asked me if I was interested in serving on the board, I was truly honored. Foundation: Your thoughts on how you would increase the visibility and popularity of the sport? MJ: More relay events world be a good start. They’re always exciting and involve multiple elite athletes. I would also work to improve the spectator experience for field events. They need to be showcased. Laser measuring and marking (why not a laser showing the leading jump, American and world records at elite meets?), larger on-field signage and more frequent standings updates would all help. |
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