Kenya’s Sawe smashes two-hour barrier to win London marathon

Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe ran 1:59:30 to win the London Marathon and become the first athlete to break the two-hour barrier in a competitive race.

The 30-year-old finished more than one minute inside the previous record of 2:00:35 set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in 2023.

Eliud Kipchoge had earlier run under two hours in 2019, but that performance was not recognised as a record due to controlled conditions.

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Sawe was on record pace early, reaching halfway in 1:00:29, and maintained his tempo in the second half. He made his move before the final 10km, with Yomif Kejelcha the only runner able to respond.

Kejelcha finished second in 1:59:41, also under two hours, while Jacob Kiplimo placed third in 2:00:28, inside the former record time.

Speaking after the race, Sawe said, “I am feeling good. I am so happy. It is a day to remember for me.

“We started the race well. Approaching finishing the race, I was feeling strong. Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time, and I was so excited.”

Sawe covered the second half in 59:01 after passing 30km on pace. His splits quickened between 30km and 40km as he pushed clear of the field.

Before the race, Sawe had indicated his intention to challenge the record.

He said earlier in the week that it was “only a matter of time” and added, “I hope and wish one day [it will be me]” when asked about breaking the two-hour mark.