From South Sudan to stardom: The untold story of Athing Mu's parents and their unwavering support

Athing Mu, born on June 8, 2002, in Trenton, New Jersey, has rapidly ascended to prominence in the world of middle-distance running.

She has two Olympic gold medals to her name, titles she won at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in the 800m and 4x400m relay. She also won a World Championship gold medal in the 800m in 2022 and a bronze in 2023.

Her remarkable achievements on the track have not only highlighted her exceptional talent but also cast a spotlight on her family's inspiring journey from South Sudan to the United States.

Immigration Journey

In 2000, Deng Mu and Aluel Lual, the parents of Athing Mu made the life-altering decision to leave their homeland of South Sudan to find better opportunities and a safer environment for their family.

They settled in the United States, two years before Athing Mu’s birth. They became part of the South Sudanese diaspora that sought refuge.

Their move showcased the resilience and hope that many immigrants carry, aiming to provide their children with prospects they might not have had.

Family and upbringing

Athing Mu is the second youngest of seven siblings and she grew up in a household that upheld cultural heritage with a mix of embracing new opportunities.

Her parents instilled in their children the importance of hard work and determination and despite having many children, they ensured that their children had access to opportunities that would allow them to thrive.

Professional endeavours

Deng Mu found employment as a seafood processor in the Pacific Northwest, a job that required his full attention and he worked for long hours to ensure he catered for his family well.

Aluel Lual worked in a warehouse, contributing to the family's income while managing the responsibilities of a large household.

Support for Athing Mu’s athletic pursuits

From a young age, Athing Mu displayed a natural talent for running and after recognizing her potential, Deng and Aluel provided unwavering support for her dreams.

They facilitated her participation in track events and ensured she had the resources needed to develop her skills.

Their encouragement was instrumental in many of her decisions including joining a track club instead of her high school team.

Challenges and resilience

The journey from South Sudan to the United States was not without challenges but somehow, Athing Mu’s parents managed to get through every obstacle.

Getting to the US required that they adapt to a new culture, overcome language barriers, and establish economic stability.

Athing Mu’s parents' ability to navigate these obstacles not only provided a stable foundation for their family but also served as a powerful example for their children. Her perseverance on the track mirrors the tenacity demonstrated by her parents in building a new life in America.

The story of Deng Mu and Aluel Lual is a testament to the enduring spirit of immigrants who strive to create better futures for their children, in this case, Athing Mu and her siblings.

Their sacrifices and unwavering support have been pivotal in Athing Mu’s development into a world-class athlete.

As Athing Mu continues to break records and inspire countless individuals, the foundational role of her parents' journey and support remains a central element of her narrative.