Henry Rono dies at 72

Former World 3000m steeplechase record holder Henry Rono has passed away while receiving treatment at Nairobi South Hospital .

The 72 year-old passed away on Thursday at 10:30 am after a ten-day hospitalization at the facility.

Athletics Kenya (AK) sent a press release, paying tribute to the fallen hero. “Athletics Kenya is saddened to announce and notify the public of the demise of former Athlete Mr. Henry Rono which occurred today at 10.30 am on Thursday morning.”

The Kapsabet born athlete, was a two-time world recorder holder in the 5,000m race, having made history in 1978, and in 1981.

In 1978, he wrote history with one of the greatest performances in athletics history, when he broke four world records in 81 days.

Rono also ran 27:22.50 to smash the existing 10,000m world record in an event staged in Vienna, Austria in the same year.

Rono who was famously known as the Nandi Warrior spent close to 40 years in the United States, where he worked as an athletics coach, managing to produce a team of successful athletes.

“On behalf of the 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,” Athletics Kenya said.