Historic Marathon Achievement
Kenya's Sebastian Sawe has returned home to jubilant celebrations after becoming the first man to complete a marathon in under two hours under competitive race conditions.
His remarkable feat at the London Marathon on Sunday is being widely celebrated in Kenya, where officials and supporters gathered to welcome him at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.
Sawe's parents were present to greet him, just days after he achieved the milestone of finishing a marathon in an official time of 01:59:30.
"I am happy about this good day, that you came to celebrate with me, I did not expect it,"
Sawe's parents traveled six hours from their home to join his supporters for his arrival.
The Kenyan Airways flight carrying Sawe was honored with a water cannon salute upon landing, accompanied by performances from dancers and musicians.
Family and National Pride
The homecoming marked a significant moment not only for Sawe and his family but also for the nation.
Speaking from their family home prior to heading to the airport, Sawe's father, Simeon Sawe, shared his pride and hope for his son's success.
"He used to tell me that one day, he was going to break the record. He was so determined and hopeful that he would."
"I am happy for him and all of us here. We celebrated so much, my throat still hurts from all the cheering,"
Sawe is anticipated to meet with Kenya's President William Ruto in the near future.
Record-Breaking Performance
The 31-year-old's marathon time surpassed the previous record held by the late Kelvin Kiptum, who set a time of 2:00:35 in 2023.
Sawe was already ahead of pace at the halfway point, crossing in 1:00:29, and completed the second half even faster in 59:01.
"I am feeling good. I am so happy. It is a day to remember for me,"
Having won all four marathons he has competed in, Sawe is already looking ahead to his next race in the autumn, expressing confidence that he can achieve an even faster time.
