The athletics world mourns the loss of Henry Rono, a Kenyan long-distance running icon whose remarkable achievements etched his name in the annals of sports history. Rono, who astounded the world with his extraordinary talent and indomitable spirit, passed away on Thursday at the age of 72.
Athletics Kenya (AK), the governing body for the sport in the country, confirmed Rono’s passing in a statement, revealing that the legendary athlete breathed his last at Nairobi South Hospital after a 10-day battle.
“In heartfelt condolence to his family, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity, we mourn the loss of a true legend whose legacy will forever inspire generations to come,” AK expressed in their statement, encapsulating the sentiment of the athletics community.
Rono rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, leaving an indelible mark on the sport with his unparalleled performances. His most enduring feat remains his astounding spree of world record-breaking achievements in 1978, a period that epitomized his extraordinary talent and unwavering determination.
In a span of a mere 81 days, Rono shattered four world records, rewriting the history books with exceptional performances in the 10,000-meter, 5,000-meter, and two separate 3,000-meter races. His dominance extended to the 3,000-meter steeplechase, where he held the world record for over a decade, showcasing his versatility and prowess across various distances.
Among his accolades, Rono clinched gold medals in the 3,000-meter and 5,000-meter steeplechase events at the 1978 Commonwealth Games, further cementing his status as one of the greatest athletes of his generation.
