Kenya athletics pride and world record holder Sebastian Sawe has arrived home to a jubilant reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after becoming the first man to run a marathon under two hours.
Sawe, crowned the new king of marathon running after his record- breaking of 1:59:30 achievement, was received by his family, friends and government officials led by Cabinet Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports Salim Mvurya, Deputy Government spokesperson Gabriel Muthuma and Member of Parliament of Kesses Julius Rutto.
Sawe was excited beyond words, thanking everyone who received him saying, “I am happy about this good day that you came to celebrate with me, I did not expect it.”
The plane that flew Sawe, Kenya Airways was welcomed with a water cannon salute when it landed at JKIA, as dancers and musicians performed. The warm welcome was significant for him and his family.
Sawe had previously made records by breaking Kelvin Kiptum’s record with 2:00:35 (2023). In the race pace, he crossed the halfwalk mark in 1:00:29 and London marathon 2025 in 2:02:27. In all, he won all four marathons and is now looking forward to the next season.
