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Kenyan athletics icon Henry Rono succumbs to illness

Henry Rono © Courtesy

By Rama Mohammed | 15 Feb 2024

The passing of Henry Rono comes as a profound loss to the athletics community, further compounded by recent tragedies within the sport.

The athletics fraternity is in mourning once again as the news of former athlete Henry Rono's passing spreads across the globe.

At the age of 72, Rono, a legendary figure in the track and field community, succumbed to a brief illness at a hospital in Nairobi, as confirmed by Athletics Kenya in a statement to the press.

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Athletics Kenya is saddened to announce and notify the public of the demise of former Athlete Mr. Henry Rono which occurred this morning. #RIPRono pic.twitter.com/YTqnmcq74H
— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) February 15, 2024

Henry Rono's remarkable achievements on the track left an indelible mark on the history of athletics. Representing Kenya at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton, Canada, Rono's prowess earned him gold medals in the men’s 3000m steeplechase and 5000m.

He went on to etch his name in the annals of track and field history by shattering four world records in the 3000m, 3000m steeplechase, 5000m, and 10,000m events. His unparalleled achievements solidified his status as one of the greatest distance runners of all time.

Born in Kiptaragon Village in Nandi County, Henry Rono's journey from rural Kenya to the global stage is a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination. Despite facing challenges along the way, Rono's passion for running propelled him to greatness, inspiring countless athletes around the world.

Another sad day for 🇰🇪 as we lose former 3000m steeplechase and 5000m great, Henry Rono. A true national patriot, Rono held world records twice, in 1978 and 1981. On my own behalf and on behalf of the @moyasa_ke we convey our deepest sympathies to the family of Henry. pic.twitter.com/IeNxYrX9pq
— Hon Ababu-Namwamba, EGH🇰🇪 (@AbabuNamwamba) February 15, 2024

Rono's absence from the Olympic stage, due to Kenya's boycott of the 1976 and 1980 Games in Montreal, Canada, and Moscow, Russia, respectively, remains a bittersweet chapter in his storied career. However, his impact on the sport transcends Olympic medals, as he continues to be celebrated as a trailblazer in track and field.

After spending 33 years in the United States, Rono returned to his homeland in 2019. His passing comes at a time when the athletics world is still reeling from recent tragedies, including the untimely deaths of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana in a tragic road accident.