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Kenyan long-distance runner Henry Rono died on Thursday at the age of 72, Athletics Kenya said.

Rono developed his talent as a runner while serving in the Kenyan army and was chosen for the 3000m steeplechase and 5000m at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal.

He made history after breaking four world records in less than three months in 1978. He achieved world records in the 3,000, 5,000, and 10,000 meters, as well as the 3,000-meter steeplechase.

“On behalf of Athletics Kenya Executive Committee and athletics fraternity, we wish to convey our sincere heartfelt condolences,” Athletics Kenya said in a statement.

Athletics Kenya did not provide a cause of death but said Rono had been hospitalised for the past 10 days.

He was born in Kenya in 1959 and returned to the East African nation in 2019 after spending 33 years living in the USA.

Rono’s death comes at a time when Kenya is still mourning the death of marathon world record holder, Kelvin Kiptum.

Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana died in a car crash in western Kenya.

(With input from agencies)