Running News Daily

Bodey Lutes Breaks Prefontaine’s 800m Record at Marshfield High

A new chapter has been written in the storied history of Marshfield High School’s track program. On May 2, senior Bodey Lutes broke the school’s 800-meter record with a time of 1:53.00, surpassing a mark set by none other than running legend Steve Prefontaine, who held the previous record of 1:53.8 for over 50 years.

Lutes’ performance came on the Pirates’ home track in Coos Bay, Oregon—just miles from where Prefontaine’s legacy began. Social media lit up with praise for the standout senior, with fans calling the effort “an incredible accomplishment” and some suggesting he now deserves a mural of his own—alongside the iconic image of Pre that already adorns school walls.

Prefontaine, who graduated in 1969, went on to become one of America’s most celebrated distance runners, holding numerous American records and captivating the world with his fearless front-running style. For Lutes to break one of his school records is not just a personal triumph—it’s a moment that links past and present in Oregon’s rich running tradition.

“It’s an honor just to be mentioned alongside Prefontaine,” Lutes said. “He paved the way for so many runners, and to be part of that story now means everything.”

As Bodey Lutes prepares for state championships and a future that likely includes collegiate competition, his name is now forever etched in Marshfield history—right next to one of the greatest names in the sport.