In the golden age of the men’s 400m hurdles, Rai Benjamin stands out among the world’s best.

Following a self-described disappointing bronze finish at the 2023 World Championships, Benjamin is ready to continue his quest for gold in individual Olympic competition.

Here are some things to know ahead of Benjamin’s return to the Olympic stage this summer.

How old is Rai Benjamin?

Rai Benjamin is 27 years old. But before he fights for a gold medal, he’ll experience a golden day of his own, turning 27 on July 27, the day after the Opening Ceremony in Paris.

How tall is Rai Benjamin?

Rai Benjamin is 6-foot-3.

Where is Rai Benjamin from?

Rai Benjamin was born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in Mount Vernon, a town in Westchester County.

Where does Rai Benjamin live now?

Rai Benjamin lives in Los Angeles.

Where did Rai Benjamin go to high school?

Rai Benjamin went to Mount Vernon High School, the same high school which actors Denzel Washington and JB Smoove attended. 

Where did Rai Benjamin go to college?

After two seasons at UCLA, Rai Benjamin transferred to USC, where he spent the rest of his college career.

Who are Rai Benjamin’s parents?

Rai Benjamin was born to Antiguan immigrants Jeanette Mason and Winston Benjamin. Winston was a professional cricket player who was part of a West Indies squad that went undefeated for eight-straight years. 

What are some fun facts about Rai Benjamin?

• At 3 years old, Rai Benjamin moved with his mother back to Antigua, where he stayed until he was 9. He moved back and forth between Antigua and New York throughout middle school before permanently settling in New York for high school.
• Following the Tokyo Olympics, Rai Benjamin returned to the track and field team at USC as a volunteer assistant coach
• In the offseason, Rai Benjamin has spent much of his time cycling, joining former Olympian Colleen Quigley in practice at one point