Sabastian Sawe has made history at the London Marathon, achieving the first sub-two-hour marathon in a competitive race. The 31-year-old Kenyan finished in one hour 59 minutes 30 seconds. This time is more than one minute faster than Kelvin Kiptum’s previous record of 2:00:35, set in 2023.
Much of the focus beforehand had been about Sawe targeting Kiptum’s London Marathon course record of 2:01:25.
Sawe’s Historic Run
Sawe had said this week that it was “only a matter of time” before he broke Kiptum’s world record. He added “I hope and wish one day [it will be me]” when asked about becoming the first person to run under two hours in a race. Eliud Kipchoge ran a marathon in under two hours in 2019, but it was not record-eligible due to controlled conditions.
Already on world record pace at the halfway mark in 1:00:29, Sawe sped up over the second half. He ran even faster than Kipchoge’s time.
Sawe made his decisive move before the final 10km. Yomif Kejelcha, making his marathon debut, was the only one to match his surge.
Kejelcha and Kiplimo Break Records
Kejelcha became the second man to run under two hours in race conditions. He finished runner-up in 1:59:41.
Half marathon world record holder Jacob Kiplimo also crossed the line faster than Kiptum’s former record. Kiplimo completed the podium in 2:00:28.
Assefa’s Dominance Continues
In the women’s race, Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia improved her own world record for a women-only field. She retained her title in 2:15:41, surging clear of Kenyan rivals Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei in a thrilling finish.
Wheelchair Race Victories
Swiss athlete Marcel Hug secured a record-equalling eighth London Marathon victory in the elite men’s wheelchair race. He tied with Great Britain’s David Weir by winning for a sixth successive year.
Catherine Debrunner also retained the elite women’s wheelchair title. The Swiss athlete broke clear of American Tatyana McFadden in the closing stages.
Sawe had previously targeted Kiptum’s world record in Berlin last September. He went through halfway in 60:16, before the hot weather undid that bid.
Sawe said, “Approaching finishing the race, I was feeling strong. Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time, and I was so excited.”