By Robert Mutasi In a spectacular display of patriotism and adoration, Kenya welcomed its newest hero, Sebastian Sawe, the world marathon record holder, with a grandiose ceremony at Eldoret International Airport.
Sawe’s remarkable achievement of clocking 1:59:30 at the London Marathon, becoming the first athlete to officially break the two-hour barrier in a competitive race, was met with jubilation and fanfare.
Upon his arrival at the airport, Sawe was greeted with a ceremonial water salute, as the Kenya Air Force C-145 Skytruck taxiied to the apron amidst cheers and applause.
Family, friends, and fans of Sawe, including his wife Lydia Jerono, who presented him with a bouquet of flowers, awaited him with beaming smiles.
In a symbolic ceremony, Sawe was adorned with sinendet, a sacred plant associated with heroism in the Kalenjin community, and handed a gourd of fermented milk (mursik) by his mother, Emily Sawe.
Visibly moved, Sawe thanked Kenyans for the overwhelming welcome, saying he had never received such a huge reception in his athletic career.
Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang and Uasin Gishu County Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea, among other leaders, praised Sawe’s achievement, saying it had uplifted the nation and motivated the next generation of athletes.
Training partner Amos Kipruto, who finished fourth in London, hailed Sawe’s feat, noting it had inspired fellow athletes.
As Sawe takes a short break before resuming training, Kenya basks in the glory of its newest hero, who has cemented his name in the annals of athletic history.
Eldoret Leo