In a stunning display of athletic prowess, Kenyan runner Sebastian Sawe has shattered the half marathon world record, clocking an astonishing time of 59 minutes and 30 seconds at the London Marathon. The 31-year-old's performance has been hailed as one of the greatest in distance running history, drawing comparisons to Sir Roger Bannister's sub-four-minute mile and Usain Bolt's 100m world record.
Sawe's record-breaking run saw him eclipse the previous mark set by Kelvin Kiptum, who had run 2:00.35 in the full marathon. Remarkably, two other runners also finished under Kiptum's old time: Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha and Jacob Kiplimo, who ran 2:00:28. The London course, not traditionally known for its speed, became a highway for elite runners on this historic day.
Sawe's journey to the top has been remarkable. Growing up in a remote Kenyan village with mud walls and no electricity, he was so shy he would often hide before races. A teacher, Julius Kemei, encouraged him, telling him that running was his fortune and future. It was only in his mid-20s, when he joined the 2Running group led by Italian coach Claudio Berardelli, that his potential truly blossomed.
Questions about doping have inevitably arisen, given Kenya's chequered history. However, Sawe's sponsors, Adidas, have paid the Athletics Integrity Unit $50,000 for extensive testing this year to demonstrate his cleanliness. Under a similar protocol before the Berlin marathon, Sawe passed all tests.
Sawe's victory and world record have earned him over $1 million (£740,000) in prize money, appearance fees, and bonuses. Reflecting on his achievement, Sawe said: 'I am feeling good, I am so happy. It is a day to remember. I have shown that nothing is not possible.'
