Steve Prefontaine Quotes

A collection of quotes by Steve Prefontaine.

Steve Prefontaine was an American middle- and long-distance runner who gained recognition for his relentless efforts and charismatic personality. Born on January 25, 1951, in Coos Bay, Oregon, Prefontaine quickly emerged as a standout athlete during his high school years. His exceptional performances on the track earned him numerous accolades, including state championships and All-American honors.

Continuing his athletic journey at the University of Oregon, Prefontaine became a prominent figure under the guidance of renowned coach Bill Bowerman. He shattered numerous collegiate records and captured multiple NCAA titles, showcasing his incredible endurance and natural talent.

Prefontaine's engaging personality and fierce competitiveness made him a beloved figure among fans. He became a leading advocate for athletes' rights during the 1970s, famously fighting against the exploitative nature of amateur athletics and seeking fair compensation for athletes.

Tragically, Prefontaine's promising career came to an untimely end when he died in a car accident on May 30, 1975, at the age of 24. Despite his short life, his legacy endures. Prefontaine's indomitable spirit and commitment to pushing boundaries continue to inspire generations of runners, who remember him as one of America's greatest distance runners.

A race is a work of art that people can look at and be affec

A race is a work of art that people can look at and be affected in as many ways they're capable of understanding.

Steve Prefontaine


Some people create with words or with music or with a brush

Some people create with words or with music or with a brush and paints. I like to make something beautiful when I run. I like to make people stop and say, 'I've never seen anyone run like that before.' It's more than just a race, it's a style. It's doing something better than anyone else. It's being creative.

Steve Prefontaine

Music

I'm going to work so that it's a pure guts race at the end,

I'm going to work so that it's a pure guts race at the end, and if it is, I am the only one who can win it.

Steve Prefontaine

Work

A race is a work of art that people can look at and be affec

A race is a work of art that people can look at and be affected in as many ways as they're capable of understanding.

Steve Prefontaine

Running

To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice The Gi

To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice The Gift.

Steve Prefontaine

Running

Someone may beat me, but they're going to have to bleed to d

Someone may beat me, but they're going to have to bleed to do it.

Steve Prefontaine

Running

A lot of people run a race to see who's the fastest. I run

A lot of people run a race to see who's the fastest. I run to see who has the most guts.

Steve Prefontaine

Running