Track and field legend Henry Rono dies at 72

Track and field legend Henry Rono, who broke four world records in 81 days in 1978, died Thursday, according to Athletics Kenya. He was 72.

Rono’s cause of death wasn’t revealed. Athletics Kenya said he was hospitalized in Nairobi for 10 days receiving treatment.

“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,” the organization said.

Rono never ran in the Summer Olympics because Kenya boycotted both the 1976 and 1980 Games.

But he was a big name after his impressive records run in 1978 in which he won the 3000 meters, 5000 meters, 10,000 meters and 3000 steeplechase during an 81-day period from April 8 to June 27.

“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,” the Athletics Committee of Kenya said in a news release.

Rono attended Washington State from 1976-1979 and won six NCAA titles between track and cross country during his All-American college career.

“Henry Rono is a legendary figure in the history of Cougar Athletics,” Cougars athletic director Pat Chun said in a news release. “His accomplishments are unmatched in Track and Field, and he embodied the true Cougar spirit. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.”

–Field Level Media