Kenya, yet again is mourning the death of former multiple world record holder Henry Rono who died today morning in Nairobi.
Rono, who was hospitalized died today at 10:30am at Nairobi South hospital where he has been.
The Nandi born runner made history during his running days when, in a span of only 81 days, he broke four world records in the 10,000m (27:22.5), 5000m (13:08.4), 3000m steeplechase in 8:05.4 the 3000m flat 7:32.1 an achievement unparalleled in the history of distance running
He lowered the 10,000 record by almost eight seconds, the 5000 by 4.5, the steeplechase by 2.6, and the 3000 by a full three seconds
He was to improve the 5000m world record in 1981 in Norway where he clocked 13:06.20 and won gold in the 3000m steeplechase and 5000m race at the Commonwealth games in Edmonton, Canada.
He also won gold at the All Africa Games in Algiers , Algeria winning in the 3000m steeplechase and 10,000m events respectively.
Rono, however never competed for Kenya the Olympics in 1976 in Montreal and 1980 in Moscow following boycotts and by the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles USA he was no longer competing.
Following his death, Athletics Kenya in a statement broke the sad news saysingd: “Athletics Kenya is saddened to announce and notify the public of the demise of former Athlete Mr. Henry Rono which occurred today at 10.30am.“
“On behalf of Athletics Kenya Executive Committee and athletics fraternity, we wish to convey our sincere heartfelt condolence to his family, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity during this trying moment. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the statement added, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt across the athletics world