President William Ruto has rewarded Kenyan marathon star Sabastian Sawe with Ksh8 million and a brand-new car after his remarkable performance at the London Marathon, where he set a new world record and became the first man ever to complete a marathon in less than two hours.
Sawe, who had entered the race as one of the top favourites, crossed the finish line in an astonishing time of 1:59:30 on Sunday. His historic run erased the previous world record of 2:00:35, which had been set by the late Kelvin Kiptum during the Chicago Marathon.
The achievement has been widely praised as one of the greatest moments in marathon history.
During a special ceremony held at State House after Sawe returned to the country through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, President Ruto personally honoured the athlete on behalf of the government.
He presented Sawe with two separate cheques worth Ksh5 million and Ksh3 million, bringing the total cash reward to Ksh8 million.
The President also handed Sawe a unique customised Kenyan number plate bearing the numbers 1:59:30, the exact time of his record-breaking run. With the special plate, Sawe was invited to choose any vehicle he wants, with the full cost to be covered by the government as part of the recognition for his achievement.
According to the government’s sports reward policy, the Ksh5 million payment was given for breaking a world record, while the additional Ksh3 million was awarded under the same framework that recognises athletes who win gold medals in major international competitions.
In a touching moment during the ceremony, Sawe presented President Ruto with an autographed pair of the running shoes he wore during the unforgettable race in London. The gesture symbolised gratitude and celebrated the historic bond between the athlete and the nation.
The London Marathon will be remembered as one of the most extraordinary races ever held because of the many milestones achieved on that day.
Apart from Sawe’s world record, Yofin Kejelcha of Ethiopia also made history by finishing in 1:59:41, becoming the first Ethiopian athlete to run a marathon in under two hours.
Meanwhile, Jacob Kiplimo from Uganda secured third place with a personal best time of 2:00:28, adding to the race’s unforgettable list of achievements.
President Ruto praised Sawe for pushing the limits of what many believed was possible.
He said the athlete had done more than break a record, noting that he had opened new possibilities for future generations, inspired millions of people, and shown the world the strength and determination of Kenyan athletes.
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