Billy Mills “Destiny” (Tokyo Gold 1964) Classic Running Poster – Running Past

“Every Passion Has Its Destiny”
Billy Mills
Tamakoce Te’Hila Oglala Lakota Nation
10,000 Meter Gold Medalist, Tokyo 1964

Entering the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, no American had ever won the 10,000 Meter gold, and no one expected Billy Mills to seriously compete with the likes of Halberg, Bolotnikov, Gammoudi or Clarke in the final – especially after his qualifying time was nearly one full minute off the pace! However, after one of the most exciting, shocking track finals in Olympic history, the underdog Mills found a superhuman burst of speed down the back stretch, and became a surprise champion and a hero to millions.

Chronicled in the 1984 film Running Brave, Mills’ inspirational story began with humble beginnings as an Oglala Sioux on the Pine Ridge Indian reservation, moved on to a successful college career at the University of Kansas, progressed to life in the military as a marine lieutenant, became a champion in this stunning Olympic moment, and has continued ever since as an motivational advocate for native youth. One of America’s classiest, and most popular, running stars, this poster features both the ultimate image, and the ultimate quote, from Mills’ amazing life. In beautiful black-and-white, this piece will inspire you to greater heights with every glance, and will remind you of one of the most incredible moments in running history! The perfect addition to your running wall-of-fame.