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Nairobi \u2014 President William Ruto has awarded marathon sensation Sebastian Sawe Ksh8 million in recognition of his record-breaking performance at the London Marathon, where he became the first athlete in history to complete the 42-kilometre race in under two hours.<\/em><\/p>\n Sawe stunned the athletics world on Sunday after clocking an astonishing 1:59:30, eclipsing the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.<\/p>\n During a celebratory ceremony at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto presented the athlete with two cheques worth Ksh5 million and Ksh3 million on behalf of the government.<\/p>\n Sawe also received a brand-new car and a customised vehicle registration plate bearing the numbers “1:59:30” the time that secured his place in sporting history.<\/p>\n \n Ruto described the feat as a defining moment not just for Kenya, but for humanity.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “You have achieved what many believed could never be done. You have made the impossible possible, and in doing so, you have inspired a nation, inspired a generation, and inspired the world,” he said.<\/p>\n The President likened Sawe’s accomplishment to some of history’s greatest milestones, saying it had expanded the boundaries of human potential.<\/p>\n “You have not only broken a record, you have redefined the limits of human endurance and possibility,” Ruto said.<\/p>\n Sawe’s rise in marathon running has been meteoric. Since making his debut in Valencia in 2024 the fastest marathon debut in history the 30-year-old has remained unbeaten on the global stage.<\/p>\n “From that moment, you have demonstrated rare consistency, unwavering discipline and the mindset of a true champion,” the President said.<\/p>\n Ruto noted that Sawe’s victory extends Kenya’s long-standing dominance in marathon running, with the country having held the men’s world marathon record continuously since 2011.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n He hailed Kenyan athletes as the country’s most effective ambassadors, saying their achievements have projected Kenya’s image to the world in ways no formal investment could match.<\/p>\n “Our athletes are among our finest ambassadors, projecting the very best of our nation to the world. No investment could secure the global recognition and positive image they have consistently brought to Kenya,” he said.<\/p>\n The President also praised Sawe’s humility and patriotism, noting that even in triumph, the athlete chose to speak about Kenya rather than himself.<\/p>\n “That demonstrates extraordinary patriotism. Thank you for carrying the name, the stature and the flag of our nation so proudly,” he said.<\/p>\n Ruto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the sports sector through expanded infrastructure, talent development and improved athlete welfare.<\/p>\n
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