Galen Rupp

1986-present

American Olympic long-distance medalist

Did you know an American ended a nearly 50-year Olympic medal drought in the 10,000 meters? Meet Galen Rupp. Imagine running 25 laps around a track faster than almost everyone in the world—that’s the kind of race Rupp ran on the Olympic stage. His races were exciting because he ran smart and stayed strong to the end.

Galen Rupp is a 21st-century American long-distance runner, born in 1986 in Portland, Oregon. The single most important thing to know is his Olympic success in the 10,000 meters. He began running as a kid and later raced for the University of Oregon, rising from college star to world-class athlete.

Rupp won a silver medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2012 London Olympics—the first American medal in that race since 1964. He also earned a bronze in the same event at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Later he stepped up to marathons and won major road races, including the 2017 Chicago Marathon. He made America proud on both the track and the roads.

Why does this matter? Galen Rupp showed that hard work, practice, and patience can take you to the biggest stages in sports. His Olympic medals inspired young runners across the United States. If you like running, Rupp’s story shows how steady training and never giving up can take you far. That’s why many kids and young athletes look up to him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What other events did Rupp race besides the 10,000 meters?

He competed on the track in the 5,000 meters and later moved up to road marathons, showing range from fast track races to longer road events.

Who coached Galen Rupp during his professional career?

For much of his pro career he trained under Alberto Salazar as part of the Nike Oregon Project.

Was Galen Rupp ever personally sanctioned for doping?

While Rupp trained with a program whose coach was later banned for doping-related offenses, Rupp himself was not personally sanctioned.

How did Rupp structure his training?

His training emphasized consistent high mileage, interval and tempo workouts, altitude camps at times, and careful recovery to combine speed and endurance.