1972: Pre, UO Track, Nike Shoes and My Life with Them All

Since its start in 1972, Nike has employed nearly half a million people. Only four have outlasted Steve Bence. In "1972," Nike's Program Director in Footwear Sourcing and Manufacturing—and an All-American runner at Oregon in the early 1970s—shares about his coach, Bill Bowerman; his friend, Steve Prefontaine; his running career at the UO; and his 40-plus year career at Nike. Regarding the latter, Bence offers the seldom-told manufacturing story from Nike's early years. Combined, he has created a book that belongs on every running enthusiast's shelf.

Phil Knight, Nike co-founder: "Steve Bence, a nationally ranked 800 meter runner and 40-plus year teammate of mine at Nike, brings a unique perspective on the Nike story. I enjoyed his book, and think you will, too."

Curtis Anderson, TrackTown USA/OTC Elite Press Officer: "Who would have thought it would be possible to plow fresh ground amidst the larger stories of Pre, Bowerman, Knight and Nike? But along comes Steve Bence, a former 800-meter runner who walked on at Oregon in the fall of 1971. He competed for Bowerman, considered Pre one of his closest friends, and when his unlikely UO career came to a close, he signed on to help Nike establish its early overseas operations. Now, a half-century later, Bence provides an insider’s view of those iconic figures and company with an authentic voice that takes readers on an emotional ride filled with rollicking tales and somber reflection. A wonderful read that left me wanting more."

Kenny Moore, Olympic marathon and former "Sports Illustrated" writer: "The classic hope of any writer is to find the most perfect words for telling a story; the French have it right, “le mot juste.” Yet, over and over, Steve Bence does that, even more than that in telling his take on history as a runner at University of Oregon and as an early employee at Nike. Every time Bence asserts he is not a writer, his text proves otherwise. Every time he avers he is not the right historian to define Bill Bowerman, Phil Knight or Steve Prefontaine, his knowing stories prove the opposite."