Lopez Lomong

He was born in the small village of Kimotong — the territory of modern South Sudan. During the Civil War, he was abducted by unknown persons, and for many years was considered missing. After he managed to escape from captivity, he crossed the border with Kenya and settled in a refugee camp in the suburbs of Nairobi, where he lived for 10 years. With the help of a charitable Catholic organization, he left for the United States in 2001. In 2007, he received American citizenship.

At the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympic Games, he was the flag bearer of the US national team. At the Beijing Olympics, he took 12th place in the 1500 meters. At the London Olympics, he took 10th place in the 5000 meters. He took 6th place in the 3000 meters at the 2012 World Indoor Championships. He competed at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow at a distance of 1500 meters, but failed to reach the final.

Winner of the 2013 Millrose Games in the 1 mile race with a competition record of 3.51,21.

Currently holds the U.S. record for the 5000 meters indoor — 13.07,00.