President Ruto Honours Marathon Record Breaker Sebastian Sawe with Ksh 8 Million Award and Custom Number Plates

Sawe made history on April 26, 2026, by becoming the first man to run an official marathon in under two hours. His remarkable time of 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds shattered the previous world record and filled the nation with pride.

During the special reception, the President awarded Sawe Ksh 5 million as promised to any athlete who breaks the world marathon record. An additional Ksh 3 million cheque came from the Ministry of Education, bringing the total cash reward to Ksh 8 million. President Ruto also presented the athlete with unique custom vehicle number plates featuring his record-breaking time of 01:59:30. In his remarks, the President praised Sawe for pushing the limits of human potential and extending Kenya’s proud legacy in long-distance running.

Sawe, who has now won all four marathons he has entered, expressed gratitude for the recognition. He gifted the President the running shoes he wore during the historic race. The athlete has already set his sights on returning to London to improve on his new record, showing the strong determination that has defined his rapid rise in the sport.

The occasion also highlighted recent improvements in Kenya’s sports reward system. The government has increased cash prizes for Olympic and Commonwealth medalists and raised daily allowances for athletes and officials representing the country abroad. Sawe’s success serves as powerful motivation for young runners across Kenya, especially those training in the high-altitude areas of the Rift Valley.

This generous gesture from the Head of State underscores the value Kenya places on sporting excellence. By recognising athletes like Sebastian Sawe, the country not only celebrates individual brilliance but also inspires the next generation to aim for greatness on the global stage.