Ken Swenson - 2009 Kansas Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Ken Swenson enshrined into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame during the 2009 Induction ceremony. Presenting keynote speaker is Gary Bender, 2008 KSHOF inductee.

In a state known for its great middle-distance runners, Kenneth Lloyd Swenson of Clay Center, Kansas, was one of the best. Swenson was a 1972 Olympian in the 880-yard run and a former American record holder with a time of 1:44.8. A three-time Big Eight champion in the 880, Swenson anchored four K-State relay teams to world records, two NCAA championships, and one American record. While a senior at Clay Center Community High School in 1966, Swenson was undefeated in the 880 both indoors and outdoors. Despite being recruited by just a handful of colleges, Swenson became one of the countrys top half-milers. In 1970, Swenson ranked first at 800 meters among U.S. runners by Track and Field News and 1971 and 1972 he was ranked third both years. Swenson was part of one of the greatest 800-meter races of all-time during the 1972 Olympic Trials when he edged former college rival Jim Ryun at the tape to qualify for the Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. While running at Kansas State from 1966-70, Swenson was a three-time 880-yard champion in the Big Eight Conference. He was a four-time All-American, anchored a pair of NCAA champion relay teams and was the 1970 NCAA Outdoor champion at the half-mile. He still holds the Clay Center High School record of 1:55.8. He had the fourth-fastest 880 time in history in 1970 with his 1:44.8 clocking. Swenson was inducted into the Drake Relays Hall of Fame in 1980 and is also a member of the K-State Sports Hall of Fame. Born April 18, 1948 Clay Center, Kansas. Graduated Clay Center Community H.S., 1966; Kansas State University, 1970.

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