SO I take it he either gave up or it was lethal? That would be bad to hear.
The last time I attempted to hold my breath for a long period of time was before I started smoking and I was in 8th grade (10yrs ago) I was able to hold my breath for 2min 45secs. I simply calmed my mind and body and watched the clock. Everytime a thought came into my mind I let it pass through. Thinking requires oxygen.