👟 “Go for a run and feel the wind on your face. Appreciate the strength of your body.”
Picture description: TURNING IT ON–Steve Prefontaine pulls away in the final turn to win the mile in 3:59.2, while Marty Liquori, running behind Prefontaine, faded to third as Italy’s Gianni del Buono took second.
Source: https://digital.library.ucla.edu/catalog/ark:/21198/zz0002p4fs
Author: Larry Sharkey
Steve Prefontaine inspires us to celebrate physical strength. Go for a run or walk today, feeling grateful for your body’s ability and the freedom of movement.
Steve Prefontaine, born on January 25, 1951, in Coos Bay, Oregon, was a legendary American long-distance runner. Known for his bold racing style and fierce determination, Prefontaine, often called “Pre,” became a prominent figure in the running world during the early 1970s.
Prefontaine attended the University of Oregon, where he was coached by the renowned Bill Bowerman. Under Bowerman’s guidance, Pre quickly made a name for himself, winning seven NCAA titles in track and field and cross-country. He was known for his aggressive racing strategy, often taking the lead early and maintaining a relentless pace, which endeared him to fans and competitors alike.
In addition to his collegiate success, Prefontaine set American records in every race from 2,000 to 10,000 meters. He competed in the 1972 Munich Olympics, finishing fourth in the 5,000 meters, narrowly missing out on a medal but solidifying his status as a running icon.
Prefontaine’s charismatic personality and passion for the sport helped fuel the running boom in the United States during the 1970s. He was also a vocal advocate for athletes’ rights, challenging the rigid amateurism rules that limited their ability to earn money from their sport.
Tragically, Steve Prefontaine’s life was cut short in a car accident on May 30, 1975, at the age of 24. Despite his brief career, his legacy endures, inspiring countless runners and athletes with his competitive spirit and dedication to excellence.