Arguably one of the most famous athlete of his time, his stunning triumph at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany captivated the world as it infuriated the Nazis. Despite the racism and discrimination he endured, his grace and athleticism rallied crowds across the globe. Owens was only 22 when he became first person ever to win four gold medals at one time in Olympic track history. He spent the rest of his life in a variety of ways: running several businesses, raising a family, promoting the Olympics, and volunteering his time as an advocate for children. Still, he will always be remembered for his celebrated triumphs – both on and off the track.

Of all the athletes Nike has sponsored, they have only made a statue for one - Steve Prefontaine. He wasn’t always the fastest. Nor was he the most decorated. So four decades after his death, why is Steve Prefontaine still the most influential American runner ever? Check out the video above, about the life and times of Steve Prefontaine, and what it means to leave it all on the track, and what it takes to be great.