Former Miner, Emmanuel Korir, 26, won an Olympic gold medal in Track on August 3 in Tokyo.

Korir achieved this feat in the 800 meter final, coming in with a time of 1:45.06.

Representing Kenya, the former student athlete became the third Olympic medalist in track and field for the University, being the first to claim gold in track since 1984.

The mid-range runner joined the ranks Bob Beamin, who medaled in the long jump in 1968, and Ria Stalman, to received her gold medal in 1984 for discus, as part of the list of Gold medalist miners in track & field.

His victory also extended Kenya’s four Olympic game streak in the 800 meter race.

Previous to his Olympic achievement Korir won indoor and outdoor national championships in the 800 meter race back in 2017. Korir currently has the program record in the 400 meter run at UTEP as well.