How the Book of Mormon inspired Kenneth Rooks to Olympic silver medal success

Worried that he might not be competitive, the former BYU track star found spiritual strength in reading Alma 26

Published: Aug 9, 2024, 3:15 p.m. MDT

Kenneth Rooks, of the United States, poses after winning the silver medal in the men's 3000 meters steeplechase final, at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis) — Kenneth Rooks, of the United States, poses after winning the silver medal in the men's 3000 meters steeplechase final, at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France. Ashley Landis, Associated Press

Before running in the men’s 3,000-meter steeplechase prelims of the 2024 Paris Olympics on Monday, Aug. 5, Kenneth Rooks worried he might not be able to compete with the top runners in his event.

The 24-year-old returned Latter-day Saint missionary found comfort and inspiration in the Book of Mormon, specifically Alma chapter 26.

In that chapter, Ammon glories in the Lord. When his brother Aaron rebukes him for boasting, Ammon replies, “I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things” (verse 12).

View Comments

To read the full story, visit TheChurchNews.com.

Looking for comments?

Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.