Sabastian Sawe has returned to a hero’s welcome in Kenya after becoming the first athlete to complete a marathon in under two hours in competitive race conditions, a landmark achievement that has electrified the global athletics community.
Sawe achieved the historic feat at the London Marathon, finishing in an astonishing time of 1:59:30, officially breaking the long-coveted two-hour barrier in the 42.2km race.
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, the 31-year-old was greeted by cheering crowds, traditional dancers, musicians, and family members, including his parents who travelled six hours to witness his homecoming.
His flight was honoured with a water cannon salute as supporters gathered to celebrate what many in Kenya are calling a defining moment in global athletics.
“I am happy about this good day… I did not expect it,” Sawe told the crowd, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming reception.
His father, Simeon Sawe, said the achievement fulfilled a long-standing ambition his son had repeatedly expressed. “He used to tell me that one day he was going to break the record. He was so determined and hopeful that he would,” he said.
Sawe also met Kenyan President William Ruto, who awarded him financial rewards totaling 8 million Kenya shillings (about $62,000) for the record-breaking performance and presented him with a symbolic number plate bearing his finishing time, 1:59:30.
Ruto described the performance as a historic breakthrough in human endurance, saying Sawe had “expanded the horizon of human potential.”
The athlete, who has now won all four marathons he has competed in, credited national support and said his performance was dedicated to Kenya. He also presented President Ruto with the shoes he wore during the race.
Sawe’s split times showed extraordinary consistency and speed, reaching the halfway mark in 1:00:29 before finishing the second half even faster in 59:01, surpassing the previous record of 2:00:35 set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in 2023.
Speaking after the race, Sawe said, “I am feeling good. I am so happy. It is a day to remember for me.”
Looking ahead, he said he is already targeting his next competition in the autumn, expressing confidence that even faster times are possible.
His achievement has further cemented Kenya’s global reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running and is being hailed as one of the most remarkable moments in marathon history.
