2x Olympian and 2x Silver Medalist in the 2024 Olympics Kenny Bednarek is an American track and field sprinter. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and his fraternal twin brother, Ian, were placed in foster care due to abuse and neglect. Age 4, he and his brother were adopted by Mary Bednarek and moved to Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Both brothers took to running youth track starting in the second grade. Running for Rice Lake High School, Kenny won seven individual state titles and led his team to a 4×400 relay championship.
“When I was in high school, I loved sports, but I also had a lot of feelings of insecurity and a lack of belonging,” recalled Kenny. “I always said I wanted to be an Olympian, but I think at the time, I wasn’t really thinking about what that required. I was just going through the motions.”
When Kenny discovered track and field, he unlocked a new part of himself. He finally had a way to channel his energy into a positive and productive outlet. He defied the odds and started breaking records while running track there, quickly going pro.
Most recently, he qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay events.
His message to those touched by foster care and adoption is one of hope.
“I want to inspire others and those who may have similar experiences and promote safety and stability for all children,” said Kenny.