Keni Harrison (born Kendra Rae Harrison on September 18, 1992 in Tennessee) is an American hurdler and former world record holder in the 100m hurdles. She was adopted at 3 months old by Gary and Karon Harrison and grew up in a large family of 11 children in Clayton, North Carolina.
Harrison had an accomplished NCAA career at Clemson and Kentucky, winning NCAA titles in 2015 in both the 100m hurdles and 400m hurdles. After a successful college career at Clemson University and the University of Kentucky, Keni Harrison turned professional and quickly established herself as one of the best hurdlers in the world. Turning professional, she broke the 28-year-old 100m hurdles world record on July 22, 2016 at the London Muller Anniversary Games, running 12.20 seconds.
Harrison won the 2018 World Indoor gold in the 60m hurdles. At the 2019 World Championships, she took silver in the 100m hurdles, and won another silver in the event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Known for her immense speed between the hurdles, Harrison currently holds the North American records of 12.20 in the 100m hurdles and 7.70 in the 60m hurdles.
Keni Harrison’s Family Origin
Keni Harrison (formerly known as Kendra Harrison) was born on September 18, 1992, in Tennessee, United States. She was adopted at three months old by Gary and Karon Harrison, a military family who as per Team USA’s official website, settled in Clayton, North Carolina later on, when Keni was five years old.
Who are Keni Harrison's Parents?
Keni Harrison's adoptive parents are Gary and Karon Harrison. Her father, Gary, works for the Transportation Security Administration, while her mother, Karon, is an assistant preschool teacher.
Who are Keni Harrison's Siblings?
Keni Harrison has ten siblings, eight of whom were also adopted by her parents, Gary and Karon Harrison.
Who is Keni Harrison's Sister?
Keni Harrison's older sister is named Casey, who is currently an Air Force major stationed in Anchorage, Alaska.
In a fun bit mentioned in an article by nbc sports, it is mentioned that Casey is the oldest of the 11 children in the family, and she recalls embarrassing moments like the family picking her up after cross country practice in a shuttle bus with "Marriott" fading on the side, causing her to pretend not to know the family members yelling out the window at her.
As Keni told World Athletics’ official website, her older sister, Casey, was instrumental in starting her track and field career. It was Casey who found and connected Harrison with her first coach, Keith McGill, when Harrison decided to take track more seriously in high school.
Keni Harrison's Family Pictures
FAQ's On Keni Harrison's Family
A. Keni Harrison has 10 siblings, making it a total of 11 children in her family.
A. Keni's first sport was gymnastics, which she started in the third grade.
A. Keni's first overseas competition was the Monaco Diamond League meet, where she finished second, surprising even her agent.
A. Keni's parents are Gary and Karon Harrison. Gary worked for the Transportation Security Administration, while Karon was an assistant preschool teacher.
A. Gymnastics helped Keni develop body control, strength, and manoeuvrability, which benefited her in the hurdles events.
