The AAU doesn't care about the athletes; why should I care about them?
Steve PrefontaineRead
How does a kid from Coos Bay, with one leg longer than the other win races? All my life people have been telling me, 'You're too small Pre', 'You're not fast enough Pre', 'Give up your foolish dream Steve'. But they forgot something, I HAVE TO WIN.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes perseverance in the face of doubt and adversity.
Steve Prefontaine highlights the determination and resilience needed to overcome obstacles, both physical and societal. Despite being told he is too small or not fast enough, he is driven by an inner resolve to succeed, underscoring the importance of self-belief and hard work in achieving one's goals.
Themes
DeterminationPerseveranceDreamsSuccessOvercoming Obstacles
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams despite the odds.
More from Steve Prefontaine
All quotes →The best pace is a suicide pace, and today looks like a good day to die.
Steve PrefontaineRead
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 PrefontaineRead
This is my last year at Oregon, and it means a lot to me. The people have been great to me up there, so if I have to run three races to win the Pac-8 title, I'll do it. Oh, sure, I'll probably be tired, but the people shouting will carry me across the finish line.
Steve PrefontaineRead
World records at 19. I don't want that. Later, yes. And when it comes, I'll learn to live with it, but it won't be my first love.
Steve PrefontaineRead
I'm the one who has made all the sacrifices. Those are my American records, not the country's.
Steve PrefontaineRead
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