Edwin Moses has had a remarkable journey in track and field, transforming from a smaller high school athlete into a two-time Olympic gold medalist and world champion. Initially facing challenges, including his size, Moses found his stride at Morehouse College, where he applied his physics knowledge to determine the optimal number of steps between hurdles—13, to be exact.
Moses’ career is highlighted by an astonishing winning streak of 122 races over nearly a decade, a record unmatched in the sport. Despite this success, he remained focused on his training rather than the accolades. “I always knew that I was 100% ready no matter what,” he said.
Beyond the track, Moses became a vocal advocate against racism, performance-enhancing drugs, and unfair compensation in sports, risking his own eligibility in the process. He believes his activism has paved the way for today’s athletes, who benefit from a more lucrative and fairer landscape.
Now, 50 years after his breakthrough, Moses continues to effect change through the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, helping children navigate life’s challenges. His story is captured in the new documentary, “Moses – 13 Steps,” produced by Morgan Freeman, which Moses had envisioned for nearly two decades.
Reflecting on pivotal moments in sports and society, Moses spoke about the impact of Olympians John Carlos and Tommie Smith, noting how their protest during the 1968 Olympics resonated deeply with the civil rights struggles of the time.
Moses credits Morehouse College for shaping his character and leadership skills, emphasizing that it provided a nurturing environment where he could thrive. He believes that without the unique opportunities at Morehouse, he might never have become the athlete he is today.