Edwin Moses is a legendary American former hurdler who dominated the 400-meter hurdles event throughout the late 1970s and 1980s. His professional journey began at Morehouse College, where he majored in physics and industrial engineering while competing for the track team. In 1976, Moses made a remarkable debut on the international stage by winning the gold medal at the Montreal Olympics, setting a world record of 47.63 seconds in the process. This victory marked the beginning of an extraordinary career that would see him win 107 consecutive finals and set the world record in the event four times.
Moses’s athletic prowess was further demonstrated by his impressive winning streak, which lasted nearly a decade. After suffering a rare defeat in 1977, he went on to remain unbeaten for nine years, culminating in his second Olympic gold medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. His innovative technique, characterized by taking 13 steps between hurdles, allowed him to pull away from competitors, solidifying his status as one of the greatest hurdlers in history. In addition to his Olympic successes, he also won three World Cup titles and a World Championship gold.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Moses has made significant contributions to sports administration and anti-doping reforms. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Athletes Trust Fund, which allows athletes to receive financial support without jeopardizing their Olympic eligibility. His advocacy for stringent drug testing policies has helped maintain the integrity of athletics, making him a respected figure in the sports community.
After retiring from competitive athletics, Moses continued to influence the sports world as the chairman of the Laureus World Sports Academy, promoting the use of sport as a tool for social change. His legacy is not only defined by his records and medals but also by his commitment to improving the landscape of athletics for future generations. Moses’s impact on the sport is celebrated, and he remains an inspirational figure for athletes around the globe.