It is remembered as one of the greatest moments in Olympic history. At the 1964 games in Tokyo, Japan, a virtually unknown 26-year-old American athlete rocketed past the expected medal winners to win the 10,000 meter race - astounding the announcers, his coach and Olympic Fans around the world.
Billy Mills surprised himself that day with his record-breaking time. But he wasn't surprised that his philosophy of persevering against all odds had paid off.
After the Olympics, Mills finished his career in the U.S. Marine Corps as an officer assigned to the Department of the Interior. He later became a successful life insurance salesman, then switched careers to become a professional speaker. He and his wife Patricia live in Sacramento, California, where Mills owns and operates Billy Mills Speakers Bureau.
Mills also uses his speaking skills as an advocate for and a role model to young Native Americans. He is the national spokesman for Running Strong for American Indian Youth, a non-profit organization that help communities with self-sufficiency programs, youth activities and cultural identity projects
