Kenyan long-distance runner, Henry Rono, has appealed to the Government to aid him with air ticket back home through a message written to Nation Sports.
The athlete, who is remembered for breaking four world track records in 1978 is now unable to cater for his needs.
“I want a ticket back home, please. Yes, I would like the government to help me get back home by getting a ticket….I can’t afford living in the USA. I’m getting old….Also, being away for over 32 years is too long,” he added.
Rono, who is based in New Mexico, is now a security guard at the Albuquerque airport.
“Yes, I did retire, but these other jobs are stressful and I’m too old. Like now, I’m sick from working hard. Many of my fellow Kenyans are dying from stressful hard working jobs,” he claimed
The Washington State University alumnus took up coaching after his running career. He had shattered world records in the 3,000, 5,000, 3,000 steeplechase and 10,000 metres, all within 81 days across USA and Europe. This was before he engaged in alcoholism.
Athletics Kenya President Jack Tuwei has promised to aid the retired athlete.
“We need information such as costs of tickets, who he could be travelling with and other details and then see how we can support,” Tuwei cited.
The athlete’s wife, Jeniffer, and two children, Calvin and Maureen, live in Nairobi. Maureen confirmed her father’s situation.
“He has been coughing for the last week and I’ve been in touch with him,” Maureen told Daily Nation.
Rono has never participated in the Olympics but he is remembered as one of the best athletes in history.
