Nandi Governor Stephen Sang with World Marathon Record Holder Sabastian Kimaru Sawe in Kapsabet on May 4, 2026./HANDOUT

Marathon sensation Sabastian Sawe has been handed a major reward back home after his record-breaking feat in London, with Nandi Governor Stephen Sang awarding him a modern three-bedroom house.

Sawe stunned the world with a historic run, clocking 1:59:30 in London in what is being described as a breakthrough moment in marathon history. He crossed the finish line more than a minute faster than the late Kelvin Kiptum’s previous mark of 2:00:35 set in 2023.

The County Government of Nandi said the house is part of the Chesumei Affordable Housing project under the Boma Yangu programme. It is located in Kapsabet, opposite the county headquarters and near Kapsabet Boys High School.

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Valued at about Sh4.8 million, the unit features a modern design with high-quality finishes and sits in what the county described as a secure and well-serviced residential area.

Nandi Governor Stephen Sang with World Marathon Record Holder Sabastian Kimaru Sawe in Kapsabet on May 4, 2026./HANDOUT
Governor Sang said the award recognises Sawe’s outstanding performance while highlighting collaboration between national and county governments in expanding access to housing.

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“This award is made in recognition of Sebastian Kimaru Sawe’s outstanding achievement and serves as a symbol of our continued commitment to promoting excellence while expanding access to quality housing and fostering inclusive and thriving communities,” the statement read.

Sawe’s triumph has also attracted national recognition. President William Ruto awarded him Sh8 million, including Sh5 million for breaking the world record and Sh3 million for his victory under the revised athlete reward structure.

World Marathon Record Holder Sabastian Kimaru Sawe being prayed for in Kapsabet on May 4, 2026./HANDOUT
Ruto also presented customised number plates bearing Sawe’s winning time, 1 59 30, and pledged to buy him a new car after the athlete noted he already had one.

“You will choose a car of your choice, and I will buy it for you,” the President said.

The marathon star is set for a massive payday following his London victory, with earnings expected to exceed $1 million (Sh129.2 million). This includes $355,000 (Sh45.9 million) from prize money and bonuses, alongside additional earnings from his Adidas contract.

His rewards include $55,000 (Sh7.1 million) for winning, $150,000 (Sh19.4 million) for running under 2:02:00, $125,000 (Sh16.1 million) for the world record and $25,000 (Sh3.2 million) for a course record.

The recognition mirrors similar honours awarded to other top athletes, including Faith Kipyegon, who received Sh5 million and a Sh6 million house last year after breaking the 1,500m record.

Ruto hailed Sawe’s achievement as a defining moment for the country.

“What Sebastian has achieved, running a marathon under two hours, confirms Kenya's place as the origin of wonder,” he said.

“If there was any doubt in anybody's mind about magical Kenya and about the origin of wonder, Sebastian has put it with clarity.”