By Jayson Henderson

Erik Kynard received his gold medal in a reallocation ceremony held in Paris on August 9, 2024, for his performance in the 2012 London Olympics. Originally awarded silver after clearing a height of 2.33m, Kynard’s medal was upgraded following the disqualification of Russian high jumper Ivan Ukhov for doping violations.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the medal reallocation in November 2021 after Ukhov’s results from 2012 to 2014 were voided. Kynard’s former coach, Cliff Rovelto, expressed satisfaction with the decision, emphasizing Kynard’s strong performance in London.

Kynard continued to compete for Team USA after 2012, finishing sixth at the 2016 Rio Olympics and narrowly missing qualification for the Tokyo Games in 2021. Now retired, Kynard remains involved with USA Track and Field. His gold medal places him among other K-State Olympians who have achieved gold, joining the ranks of Thane Baker and Kenny Harrison.