Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe returned home to jubilant scenes after becoming the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in a record-eligible race.
His landmark performance at the London Marathon on Sunday is being celebrated worldwide, and back home, where officials received him amid a crush of cameras at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.
His parents were also present to welcome him, days after he achieved the milestone with 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 told the crowd.
The Kenya Airways aircraft he flew in on was given a water cannon salute on landing, a ceremonial gesture of honour and respect, as dancers and musicians performed during the reception.
The homecoming marked a major moment for Sawe, his family, and the country.
The 31-year-old’s performance was more than a minute faster than the late Kelvin Kiptum’s previous record of 2:00:35, set in 2023.
Sawe was already on record pace at the halfway mark, clocking 1:00:29, before producing an even stronger second half in 59:01.
On Thursday, April 30, Sawe was hosted by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, in a ceremony celebrating what officials described as a historic milestone for Kenyan sport.
At State House, Sawe was received with jubilation, with Maasai dancers escorting him to the podium as he waved the national flag.
President Ruto and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya honoured Sawe for becoming the first athlete to run a sub-two-hour marathon in a record-eligible event.
He was awarded Sh8 million in recognition of his achievement, alongside a special number plate for his vehicle bearing his historic time of 01:59:30.