Developing News: Veteran athlete dies days after Kelvin Kiptum.
Developing News: Veteran athlete dies days after Kelvin Kiptum: Another sad day for Kenyans as Veteran Athlete Henry Rono dies.
His death occurred on Thursday, February 15, at 1030am comes days after 24 year old Kelvin Kiptum died of a road accident.
Athletics Kenya announced the passing, declaring that he was pronounced dead at Nairobi South Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment.
The statement read,” Athletic Kenya is saddened to announce and notify the public about the death of the demise of former athlete Mr Henry Rono which occurred today at 10:30am.”
Rono was a retired track and field athlete who was known in various long-distance running events.
He is remembered as one of the most prolific competitors in the history of track in the United States as well as being the former record holder for the 3000 metres steeplechase for over a decade.
His 3000 meters steeplechase world record (8:05.4) stood for eleven years, until 2023, but still stands as the collegiate record.
Athletics Kenya underscored that Rono set the world record for 5,000 meters twice, which is in 1978, and then again in 1981.
The statement read, “On behalf of the Athletics Kenya Executive Committee and athletic fraternity, we wish to convey our sincere heartfelt condolence to his family, friends, and the entire athletic fraternity during this trying time.”
His death comes after The cabinet dispatched that Kiptum was a force whose record-shattering achievements inspired millions around the world.
He stated, “In honour of Kenya’s departed world marathon record holder, a true national hero, the Government will support Kiptum’s family in giving him a befitting heroic farewell.”
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