When people think of Nike, they typically think of Michael Jordan, Mia Hamm, Tiger Woods, and other major super star athletes. Most people don't think, or know, about the company's first sponsored athlete Steve Prefontaine, or his coach and the companies co-founder, Bill Bowerman. Steve Prefontaine, who was one of the greatest runners in track history, helped pave the way for modern professional Track & Field and get Nike off the ground.
While running for the University of Oregon from 1970 to 1973, Steve would burn through track shoes more often than he cared for. So, his coach, Bill Bowerman, made him a pair of running shoes that was lighter, and more durable than any of the running shoes during that time. Bill would then co-found a company dedicated to making shoes for athletes of all sports. But in order to do that, he needed to get his brand known. Fortunately for him, the same runner who needed these better shoes was also in a position to make them popular.
Steve was one of the best runners in cross-country, winning back to back championships for Marshfield High in Oregon, as well as one of the most popular runners in Track and Field, setting the 5000 meter record in the 1972 Olympic Trials, and placing 4th at the Olympics in Munich. With his increasing popularity, Nike would go on to sponsor Steve in 1973, bringing national attention to the company. Since then, the attention has shifted away from track and field, becoming well known in sports like basketball.
To check out more, go to: http://news.nike.com/news/40-years-of-prefontaine
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