From Sudanese “Lost Boy” to U.S. Olympian: The Story of Lopez Lomong

We are thrilled to highlight the story of Lopez Lomong, who is running with Team USA in the London 2012 Olympics. But behind his remarkable accomplishment is a turbulent — and inspiring — life story of danger, poverty, and ultimate redemption.  

This South Sudan native is not only training hard to compete, but is also working tirelessly to bring help and hope to children and families in his home country who continue to struggle one year after the celebration of its independence. 

My dream of running for Team USA became a reality as I crossed the finish line of the men’s 5,000-meter Olympic trial. I am honored to run alongside American record-holders. This will be my second Olympic team.

It feels like I am a million miles away from where I might have been, had God not interrupted my life from the course it was taking. I’ve gone from being a “Lost Boy” of Sudan to a proud U.S. citizen who is loved and cared for by so many people in this country — no longer “lost!”

Read the rest of this story here, and look for updates on The Salt Shaker in the coming days!