President William Ruto on Sunday led the country in celebrating Sebastian Sawe following a historic performance at the London Marathon, where the Kenyan star stormed to victory in record-breaking fashion.
In a statement, Ruto described Sawe’s run as a defining moment in global athletics, saying the athlete had not only secured a major win but pushed the boundaries of human endurance on one of the world’s biggest marathon stages.
“You have not only claimed a historic victory; you have redrawn the limits of human endurance,” Ruto said.
“This is more than a win; it is a defining moment.”
Sawe delivered a stunning performance to win the race and, in the process, rewrite the record books, further cementing Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running. His feat places him firmly among the sport’s elite and signals the arrival of a new force in men’s marathon running.
The President said the victory goes beyond personal achievement, noting that it reinforces Kenya’s long-standing reputation as a powerhouse in global athletics.
“Your triumph places you firmly among the greats of global athletics and reaffirms Kenya as an enduring force at the pinnacle of distance running,” he added.
Ruto also recognised strong performances in the women’s race, where Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei finished second and third respectively, extending Kenya’s dominance on the international stage.
Obiri, a multiple world champion who has successfully transitioned to road racing, once again proved her consistency at the top level, while Jepkosgei continued to underline her pedigree as one of the world’s leading marathoners.
The President said the athletes’ performances had lifted the country’s profile globally and inspired millions back home.
“You have lifted our flag high, inspired a nation, and reminded the world of the power of determination. We are proud,” Ruto said.
The London Marathon remains one of the World Marathon Majors and is widely regarded as among the most competitive races globally, often producing historic performances.
Sawe’s victory now adds to Kenya’s rich legacy in the race, previously defined by greats such as Eliud Kipchoge, further underlining the country’s enduring dominance in distance running.
