Washington State University Unveils Statue Honouring Kenyan Legend Henry Rono
Washington State University has unveiled a bronze statue of Henry Rono, the legendary Kenyan distance runner, near its athletic fields to honour his remarkable legacy in collegiate athletics.
Rono, who passed away in February 2024, is remembered for his exceptional achievements at WSU in the late 1970s, a period that marked a high point in the university’s track and field programme. Under the guidance of coach John Chaplin, Rono set world records in four Olympic distance events within an 81-day span in 1978, a feat that cemented his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
His records, along with three NCAA cross-country titles and numerous All-American honours, made him one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the sport.
The statue, cast in bronze and featuring WSU’s crimson and grey colours, stands as a lasting tribute to Rono’s achievements.
It is strategically positioned along a central route on campus, offering a constant reminder of his impact both as an athlete and as an academic. Rono’s time at WSU also saw him earn two degrees, highlighting his commitment to both sport and scholarship.
