Reigning Deaflympics 800m men’s champion Elkana Kiprop Rono has one goal in mind — to defend his title and bring home another gold medal when the 25th Summer Deaflympics kick off in Tokyo, Japan. At just 25 years old, Rono is already a star in Kenyan Deaf athletics. He won gold in the 2022 Deaflympics in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, clocking 1:54.75 to claim victory in a nail-biting race that ended just 0.13 seconds ahead of Spain’s Jaime Martinez.
“I won’t let the gold medal go. It belongs to Kenya,”
said Rono confidently from the team’s training camp at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
“I’m in perfect shape and ready for Tokyo.”
Rono will lead a strong Kenyan trio in the men’s 800m — joined by John Koech and Brian Kiptoo — who all qualified after sweeping the podium during the National trials at Ulinzi Sports Complex in September. Without revealing much, Rono hinted at a tactical plan aimed at ensuring a Kenyan sweep of the podium.
“We’ve trained and strategized as a team. We want gold, silver, and bronze for Kenya,”
he shared with a grin.
The Elgeyo-Marakwet native first discovered his love for running while at Iten Primary School for the Deaf, inspired by his father David Chengweno and uncle Rejan Kimathi, both former athletes. His competitive streak grew stronger at Kapsabet Secondary School for the Deaf, where he dominated local races. Rono draws inspiration from World and Olympic 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi, whom he considers his role model.
“Wanyonyi is my inspiration. I admire his focus and hard work. Competing against him one day would be a dream come true,”
Rono said.
As the countdown to Tokyo continues, Rono’s determination embodies the unwavering Kenyan spirit — fierce, focused and full of pride.
