Athletics Kenya (AK) has announced the death of legendary marathoner, Henry Rono days after the demise of the late world record holder, Kelvin Kiptum.
The athlete who was aged 72, passed away at a hospital in Nairobi where he had been receiving treatment.
According to AK, the athlete passed away at 10:30 am on Thursday after a ten-day hospitalisation at the facility.
However, the athletics body did not clarify the circumstances surrounding the veteran athlete's death.
“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,” confirmed the body.
Henry Rono was a two-time world recorder holder in the 5,000 metres race, having made history in 1978, and in 1981.
Adding on to the long-distance athlete’s achievements was his maintenance of the 3,000 metres steeplechase world record for over a decade.
In 1978, Rono produced one of the greatest performances in athletics history, breaking 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.
A further addition to his accolades included his stint in the United States where he worked as an athletics coach, managing to produce a team of susccesful 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”, eulogised the Athletics Committee of Kenya.
The demise of the legendary athlete comes days after the untimely demise of Kelvin Kiptum, a marathon world record holder.
Kiptum died in a grisly road accident in Kaptagat, Uasin Gishu on February 11. The Cabinet on Wednesday announced that Kiptum would be accorded a State funeral to honour his exceptional achievements.
