Washington State University (WSU) unveils a bronze statue of the late Kenyan runner Henry Rono.
Washington State University has paid a lasting tribute to legendary Kenyan athlete Henry Rono with the unveiling of a 2.13-meter bronze statue, honouring his record-shattering achievements from the late 1970s.
The unveiling took place during Pullman’s annual Lentil Festival, attracting athletes, students, and alumni who gathered to celebrate one of the most gifted runners in history.
The statue, sculpted by Ott Jones, a WSU alumnus, stands near Mooberry Track, where Rono trained during his student years. It captures him mid-stride — focused, determined, and immortalised in motion.
“Rono’s legacy is one of perseverance and excellence. This statue reminds every athlete that greatness is possible through hard work,” said WSU Athletics Director Wayne Phipps during the ceremony.
Henry Rono’s dominance in athletics remains unmatched. In 1978, he broke four world records in just 81 days, becoming a symbol of endurance and discipline. His records in the 3,000m, 5,000m, 10,000m, and 3,000m steeplechase events brought global attention to WSU and inspired generations of runners.
Rono, who passed away in February 2024, is also honoured with a ground plaque on the Pullman Walk of Fame, further cementing his influence on the university and the local community.
Nearly 50 years later, two Kenyan athletes, Evans Kurui and Solomon Kipchoge, are keeping Rono’s spirit alive at Washington State University.
Kurui recently broke a 49-year-old college record, while Kipchoge won gold at the NCAA championships in Columbia, Missouri, setting a new course record.
“Running on the same track where Rono trained is humbling,” said Kurui. “It pushes me to stay disciplined and make Kenya proud.”
Kipchoge, from Kapsabet, credited his success to mentorship from Janeth Jepkosgei Busienei and Barnabas Korir, noting that WSU’s terrain and facilities offer perfect conditions for training and academic balance.
“We are honoured to follow Rono’s path and aim to inspire the next generation of Kenyan athletes,” Kipchoge said confidently.
Rono’s impact extends far beyond the track. His humility and sportsmanship left a mark on peers and fellow athletes.
Former WSU quarterback Jack Thompson recalled Rono’s effortless runs and infectious smile, describing him as “a humble giant of athletics.”
“He made running look easy. Honouring him with a statue is fitting, Rono was, and still is, a legend on this campus,” Thompson said.
Similarly, Glenn Osterhout, a 1983 alumnus and co-founder of CougsFirst!, remembered Rono’s commanding wins that drew crowds to every race.
“Rono wasn’t just fast; he was phenomenal,” Osterhout said. “Watching him run was like witnessing art in motion.”
Today, as students walk past the statue at Mooberry Track, they are reminded of the extraordinary story of a Kenyan who turned a university into a home of champions.
For Kurui and Kipchoge, every step they take is a continuation of Rono’s dream, one that blends discipline, faith, and national pride.
With every finish line crossed, they reaffirm Kenya’s legacy as the cradle of long-distance greatness and ensure that Henry Rono’s spirit continues to run on the crimson tracks of Washington State University.
