Ironton’s Olympian McKenzie Long honored in riverfront mural

IRONTON, OH. (WOWK) — Olympic Athlete McKenzie Long’s running career has taken her far from her home in Ironton, so while she’s off training for the 2028 Olympics, her biggest fans are warming up the riverfront where she now sits as a landmark.

Her grandpa, Isaac Glover, says the lessons she learned here go beyond any athletic technique or accolade.

“We taught her more than just how to run,” Glover said. “We taught her integrity. We taught her dignity. We taught her all of these things that will help you as you go. When failure comes, when losses come, you teach them that you get up and you try again and again.”

The city of Ironton chose a local artist from Ashland to fill in the design, so when Mayor Sam Cramblit officially declared July 11, which is also Long’s birthday, ‘McKenzie Long Day,’ it was only appropriate to host a proper ceremony.

Painter Elias Reynolds waited until ‘McKenzie Long Day’ to officially finish the mural, signing his name on the bottom right portion.

He says it’s a true honor to help her personal landmark come to life.

“It was an inspiring process just to hear about her story and kind of incorporate that into the artwork,” Reynolds said.

Long’s tattoos and facial features were the most important details to Reynolds because he wanted the mural to be as authentic as possible.

But, those reflect only a small light on who she is; an Olympian, a friend, a daughter and a proud fighting tiger.

The mural now serves as a testament to her determination and a symbol of her strength, something Mayor Cramblit is aiming to amplify.

“Big things do rise from small places,” he said. “McKenzie is living proof. That’s why we commissioned this mural; not just as art, but as a symbol of pride, perseverance and hometown achievement.”

Long could not attend the ceremony due to her training schedule, but have no fear; she knows her hometown is cheering her on.