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Henry RonoKenyan track and field athlete
Date of Birth: 12.02.1952
Country:  Kenya |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Running Beginnings
- Military and International Success
- Peak Performance
- Later Years and Education
- Financial Struggles and Return to Kenya
- Veteran Years and Autobiography
- Family and Legacy
Early Life and Career
Henry Rono was born in the village of Kaptagat, Nandi Hills District, Kenya. At the age of two, he suffered an ankle injury that prevented him from walking properly until he was six. When he was 10, his father passed away.
Running Beginnings
Despite his childhood challenges, Rono began running while attending primary school in Kibirsang, five kilometers from his village. He worked as a baker, running up to 30 kilometers daily to tea plantations while earning $10.
Military and International Success
From 1973 to 1977, Rono served in the army, where he competed in various international events. In 1977, he received a scholarship to the United States and enrolled at Washington State University.
Peak Performance
The 1978 season marked the peak of Rono's career. In 81 days, he set four world records, including the 3000-meter steeplechase and 5000-meter runs. He was named the World's Best Athlete by "Track & Field News" in 1978.
Later Years and Education
After four years in the U.S., Rono dropped out of his economics and psychology studies. In March 1981, he moved to West Germany to study at the Sports University of Mainz.
Financial Struggles and Return to Kenya
By 1984, Rono had earned a bachelor's degree but was financially bankrupt. He briefly resided in Cologne before returning to Kenya for two years to establish training programs for middle-distance and long-distance runners. He also acquired a farm, which he later sold. In 1986, he returned to the U.S.
Veteran Years and Autobiography
In 2007, the 55-year-old Rono attempted to break the world mile record for the 55-59 age group. That same year, he published his autobiography, "Olympic Dream." In 2019, Rono returned to Kenya, where he lived until his passing.
