Sabastian Sawe receives hero’s welcome in Kenya after sub-two hour marathon feat
Sabastian Sawe returned to Kenya as a national hero after becoming the first person to complete an official marathon in under two hours, clocking 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds at the London Marathon. He was welcomed at Eldoret airport by family, friends, and local officials, followed by celebrations in his home village of Ndonyongaria. President William Ruto honored Sawe at a ceremony, praising his achievement as a milestone in human endurance and presenting him with awards and financial recognition.
- ▪Sabastian Sawe ran the London Marathon in 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds, breaking the world record by 65 seconds.
- ▪He was greeted at Eldoret airport by his wife Lydia and local community members before attending a celebration in his home village.
- ▪President William Ruto awarded Sawe 8 million Kenyan shillings and commemorative car plates for his record-breaking performance.
- ▪Sawe dedicated his victory to his community, stating it was 'a victory for all of us' during a speech at the airport.
- ▪High altitude and strong running traditions in Eldoret contribute to the region's success in producing elite long-distance runners.
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Sabastian Sawe with family, friends and local officials at Eldoret airport on Thursday. Photograph: Ed Ram/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenSabastian Sawe with family, friends and local officials at Eldoret airport on Thursday. Photograph: Ed Ram/Getty ImagesGlobal developmentSabastian Sawe given hero’s welcome in Kenya after sub-two marathon featRecord-breaker says London Marathon win was ‘a victory for all of us’ as he is greeted by family and friends in EldoretSupported byAbout this contentEd Ram in EldoretFri 1 May 2026 12.50 EDTLast modified on Fri 1 May 2026 12.52 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleHugged, cheered and adorned with garlands, the first man to run an official marathon in under two hours has returned as a hero to his home village in Kenya.Sabastian Sawe, who…
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