Washington State University (WSU) in the US has immortalized the legendary Kenyan distance runner Henry Rono by erecting a large bronze statue in his honour.
The tribute comes after the athlete’s death last year and celebrates the unparalleled impact he had on collegiate and global athletics.
The statue, recently unveiled on the Pullman campus, stands near the track fields in WSU’s signature colours, crimson and grey. It serves as a permanent testament to Rono’s dominance during his time as a student there.
Rono attended Washington State University, where he studied physical education and psychology. His presence made the ‘Cougars’ a national track powerhouse.
He remains one of the most celebrated athletes in the university’s history. His legendary status was reaffirmed when he was voted the Pac-12 Track and Field Athlete of the Century in 2016.
“The campus that nurtured his extraordinary talent now immortalizes his legacy, inspiring new generations of runners,” WSU officials stated.
Rono is best remembered for one of the most astonishing achievements in athletics history, which occurred during his time at WSU. In 1978, he broke four world records across four different distance events in a span of just 81 days.
At the time the winning spree began in April 1978, Rono was 26 years old.
This feat brought unprecedented global attention to the athlete and the university. His former coach had reportedly challenged him to achieve this very goal.
The records Rono shattered in 1978 were: 5,000 metres: 13:08.4, 3,000 metres steeplechase: 8:05.4, 10,000 metres: 27:22.47 and 3,000 metres: 7:32.1
His 3,000 metres steeplechase world record remained unbroken for eleven years and still stands today as the NCAA collegiate record.
During his collegiate career, Rono won three NCAA cross-country titles, alongside his six All-American honours. He graduated from WSU in 1981.
His career, however, was affected by the Kenyan boycotts of the 1976 and 1980 Olympic Games, meaning he never had the chance to compete on the biggest global stage.
Henry Rono died at the age of 72 on 15 February 2024 in Nairobi, after a brief illness.
The bronze statue now stands as a permanent fixture, acknowledging Rono’s unique place in the history of running.
