Steve Prefontaine

American long-distance runner, Olympic hopeful

Steve Prefontaine - Athletes & Sports Figures born January 25th, 1951
Born
Died
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Athletes & Sports Figures

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United States

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A prominent American long-distance runner specialized in the 5000 meters. Competed in the early 1970s, setting numerous American records in that distance. Participated in the 1972 Munich Olympics, finishing fourth in the 5000 meters. His competitive nature and charismatic personality garnered significant attention to the sport of running, inspiring future generations of athletes. Tragically died in a car accident in 1975 at the age of 24, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's greatest distance runners.

Set American records in the 5000 meters

Finished fourth in the 1972 Munich Olympics

Championship titles at NCAA cross country and track events

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