Ruto Fetes Sabastian Sawe Ksh 8M, Brand New Vehicle for Breaking World Marathon Record
President William Ruto has awarded a total of Ksh8 million and a state-funded vehicle to Kenyan marathon sensation Sabastian Sawe following his historic performance at the London Marathon, where he became the first man to run the race in under two hours
Sawe clocked an unprecedented time of 1:59:30, smashing the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the Chicago Marathon in 2023. His achievement has been widely hailed as a defining moment in long-distance running and a major milestone for Kenya’s athletics legacy.
The Head of State hosted Sawe at State House, Nairobi, shortly after his return to the country via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where he received a hero’s welcome. During the ceremony, President Ruto presented two cheques worth Ksh5 million and Ksh3 million, respectively, in recognition of the athlete’s record-breaking feat and his gold medal victory.
In addition to the cash reward, Sawe was handed a customised Kenyan number plate bearing the digits “1:59:30” to commemorate the historic run. The athlete was also granted the opportunity to select a vehicle of his choice, which will be fully funded by the government.
Speaking during the event, President Ruto praised Sawe’s achievement, describing it as a source of national pride and inspiration. He noted that “this is a historic moment not just for Kenya, but for the entire world of athletics, and we celebrate you for pushing the limits of human endurance.”
The President emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting athletes through structured reward systems, noting that the Ksh5 million allocation aligns with policy provisions for breaking world records, while the additional Ksh3 million recognises gold medal victories in major international competitions.
Sawe, visibly elated, expressed gratitude for the recognition, terming it a significant moment in his career. In a symbolic gesture, he presented President Ruto with an autographed pair of running shoes that he wore during the record-breaking race.
Reflecting on his achievement, Sawe remarked that “this victory is not mine alone; it belongs to Kenya and to everyone who believes in hard work and discipline.”
The 2026 London Marathon has already been described by analysts as one of the most extraordinary races in history, not only because of Sawe’s record but also due to other remarkable performances. Ethiopia’s Yofin Kejelcha also dipped below the two-hour mark, clocking 1:59:41 to become the first Ethiopian athlete to achieve the milestone.
Sports experts have noted that Sawe’s performance could redefine the future of marathon running, a discipline long thought to have reached its physiological limits. His achievement has reignited global debate on human endurance, training innovation, and the evolving standards of elite competition.
Back home, celebrations have poured in from across the country, with athletics stakeholders, government officials, and fans praising Sawe for elevating Kenya’s status on the global stage. Athletics Kenya and other sports bodies have described the achievement as a testament to the country’s continued dominance in long-distance running.
As preparations begin for future competitions, Sawe’s record is expected to stand as a benchmark for years to come, inspiring a new generation of athletes.
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Ruto Fetes Sabastian Sawe Ksh 8M, Brand New Vehicle for Breaking World Marathon Record
