Only 100%

Steve Prefontaine (known as "Pre") was one of the greatest middle and long distance runners in American history.  He held the title in the 2,000 meter to 10,000 meter track events.  He was expected to win gold in the Montreal Olympics in 1976 but tragically died in an auto accident in 1975.

Although he died at the young age of 24, his legacy on and OFF the track inspires today.

Pre not only inspired people by his PERFORMANCE  on the track.  But by his PASSION on the track. 

It wasn't just WHAT he did.  But THE WAY THAT HE DID IT that inspired others.

He was known for his unorthodox racing tactic of "front-running." A gutsy method that meant he gave 100% effort for 100% of the race--a tactic that was contrary to the traditional racing method of holding back until the last lap, and then leapfrogging the opponents to the finish line.

He felt this traditional approach to racing was dishonest.

He believed that anything less than 100% effort--at any time-- was unacceptable.    Pre once said::

"I don't want to win unless I know I've done my best, and the only way I know how to do that is to run out front, flat out until I have nothing left. Winning any other way is chicken-shit."

I think Steve Prefontaine's approach to racing not only inspires us.  But more importantly, CHALLENGES us.

Challenges us to look within and ask what our life's work is.  Our mission.  Our source of passion.

So here is our challenge.  Our opportunity.  We can:

1.  Find work that that gives us PASSION.

OR

2.  Find PASSION in the work that we do.


If Pre were alive he would tell us to find our gift.  Our life's work.  And do it at 100% effort.  

For as he said:  "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."  

AMJ