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Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen (Rtd)Jack Tuwei extends his heartfelt congratulations to Kenya\u2019s outstanding marathon star Sabastian Sawe for his historic victory at the 2026 London Marathon, where he stormed to a sensational new men\u2019s world record of 1:59:30.\u00a0 In doing so, Sawe becomes the first athlete to officially break the two-hour barrier in a record-eligible marathon race, delivering one of the greatest performances in the history of long-distance running.<\/p>\n
This remarkable feat is a proud moment for Kenya and further reinforces our nation\u2019s enduring legacy as the global home of distance running excellence. Sawe\u2019s discipline, courage and tactical brilliance on one of the world\u2019s biggest marathon stages reflect the strength of Kenyan athletics and the depth of talent we continue to nurture. Last year, World Athletics recognized Sawe\u2019s extraordinary rise by voting him the Best Male Athlete Off the Track, underlining the immense talent and consistency that have now culminated in this historic world record performance.<\/p>\n
The men\u2019s marathon world record has long symbolized the ultimate standard of endurance running. Over the years, it has been lowered by legendary athletes, from Paul Tergat to Haile Gebrselassie, Eliud Kipchoge, and most recently the late Kelvin Kiptum, whose 2:00:35 set in Chicago in 2023 stunned the world. Today, Sabastian Sawe has written a new chapter by taking the event into previously unimaginable territory.<\/p>\n
Athletics Kenya also warmly congratulates Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei for their superb podium finishes in the women\u2019s race, where Obiri placed second and Jepkosgei finished third. Their performances once again showcased the strength, resilience and consistency of Kenyan women on the global marathon stage.<\/p>\n
We commend all Kenyan athletes who represented the country with distinction in London and continue to inspire millions at home and abroad.<\/p>\n
Sabastian Sawe\u2019s world record, together with the podium success of Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei, is a shining testament to Kenya\u2019s unmatched distance running heritage.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n