Projo Running Blog

From Eident Sports Marketing:

Providence, RI - Legendary runner Henry Rono, who once broke four world records in a span of 81 days, will participate in this weekend's Cox Providence Rhode Races.

Rono, 56, will be on hand to sign his autobiography, Olympic Dream on Saturday, May 2 at the Health & Wellness Expo at the Westin Hotel in Downtown Providence. He will compete in the 5k at the Cox Providence Rhode Races, Sunday, May 3.

"I competed in Providence nearly 25 years ago," said Rono. "I love the area and am looking forward to returning this weekend to take part in the Cox Providence Rhode Races."

A native of Kenya, the highlight of Rono's running career occurred in 1978 when he broke four world records in a span of just 81 days. He set new records in the 10,000 meters (27:22.5), the 5,000 meters (13:08.4), the 3,000 meters steeplechase (8:05.4), and the 3,000 meters (7:32.1).

Rono was never able to compete in the Olympics. His country twice boycotted the Games during the peak of his running career. By 1984, he was battling alcoholism and was no longer competing.

After overcoming many obstacles and decades of being sidelined, Rono began training and competing again last year.

"Being back into the running world means a lot to my life and is even more rewarding to me than in the past," said Rono, who how coaches high school track in New Mexico. "Running is important to my life. It gives me something to focus on and puts me on the right track in life."

Nearly 5,000 runners are expected to converge in downtown Providence, May 3 take part in the 2009 Cox Providence Rhode Races. This unique event features the Cox Sports Marathon, Willow Tree Half Marathon and a 5k race. To register visit: www.CoxRhodeRaces.com. The deadline to register online is Wednesday, April 29 at midnight.

Cox Communications is the Title Sponsor of the Cox Providence Rhode Races. Johnson & Wales University is the Premiere Sponsor. Charitable partners include Cox Charities New England, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team in Training and National Kidney Foundation.

 Tags  Cox Providence Rhode Races Henry Rono

---