Edwin Moses, a former engineer turned Olympic champion, revolutionized the sport of hurdling by mastering the challenging 400-meter hurdles with his innovative 13-step technique. This significant accomplishment propelled Moses to become the most dominant hurdler in history, going undefeated for an astonishing stretch of 122 races over almost a decade.
The new documentary, “13 Steps,” delves into Moses’ broader impact beyond sports, focusing on his advocacy for fair pay for athletes in track and the Olympics, tackling the issue of doping, and his activism for racial equality in America. Moses’ life decisions, including his choice to attend historically Black Morehouse College, were influenced by the racial climate of the era.
The film also addresses a troubling episode from Moses’ past when he was falsely accused of soliciting a prostitute in the 1980s. Despite the challenges he faced, Moses fought the false charges and emerged victorious, highlighting his resilience and determination.
Moses also played a pivotal role in challenging the lack of professionalism and fair compensation for track and field athletes. He advocated for athletes to receive proper payment for their performances, recognizing their value and contribution to the sport.
Aside from his activism, Moses’s technical prowess and strategic approach to hurdling forever changed the sport. By meticulously calculating the most efficient path around the track, he reduced the number of steps between hurdles and optimized his jumps, setting a new standard in hurdling technique.
The film portrays Edwin Moses as not only a legendary athlete but also a trailblazer who used his platform to advocate for social causes and push for positive change within the world of sports. His enduring legacy serves as an inspiration for athletes and activists striving to make a difference in their respective fields.
