Nandi County Celebrates Sebastian Sawe as Athletics Stars Gather in Kapsabet
Nandi County erupted in celebration as residents and leaders officially welcomed home long-distance runner Sebastian Kimaru Sawe following his impressive performance at the globally renowned London Marathon.
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| Governor Stephen Sang with record holder Sebastian Sawe (Photo Courtesy) |
The colourful homecoming ceremony held in Kapsabet brought together athletics legends, current stars, and hundreds of residents in a show of pride and unity, reaffirming the county’s status as a cradle of world-class athletes.
Speaking during the event, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang lauded Sawe’s achievement, describing it as a moment of pride not just for Nandi but for the entire country.
“Sebastian Sawe has once again demonstrated to the world that Nandi County is the heartbeat of athletics excellence. His discipline, focus, and determination reflect the spirit of our people. Today, we celebrate not just a victory, but a symbol of what is possible for our young athletes,” said Governor Sang.
The governor further emphasized the county’s commitment to supporting sports talent, noting that investment in athletes remains a key priority for the local administration.
“As a county, we will continue to invest in our athletes by creating an enabling environment for training and growth. Our goal is to ensure that many more Sebastians emerge from Nandi to conquer the global stage,” he added.
In recognition of his achievement, the County Government of Nandi awarded Sawe a three-bedroom affordable housing unit in Kapsabet, alongside other gifts, in a move aimed at appreciating excellence and motivating upcoming athletes.
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| Guests Gather for the welcoming ceremony |
The event was also graced by some of Kenya’s most celebrated athletics icons, including Kipchoge Keino, Ibrahim Hussein, Patrick Sang, Tecla Chemabwai Sang, Fatwel Kimaiyo, and Janet Jepkosgei, whose presence highlighted the rich athletics heritage of the region.
Legendary athlete Kipchoge Keino praised Sawe’s rise, noting that the future of Kenyan athletics remains bright.
“What we are witnessing is the continuation of a legacy that has defined this region for decades. Young athletes like Sawe are carrying the torch forward, and we must continue to guide and support them,” said Keino.
Current stars also joined in celebrating their colleague, among them Amos Kipruto, Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Cyprian Kotut, and Benson Kipruto, reflecting unity within Kenya’s athletics fraternity.
Leaders took time to recognize Sawe’s family, applauding his parents for nurturing his talent and instilling the discipline that has propelled him to international success.
In his remarks, Sawe expressed gratitude for the warm reception and support from his home county.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition. This victory is not mine alone—it belongs to Nandi and to Kenya. The support I receive from home gives me the strength to compete at the highest level,” he said.
As celebrations concluded, one message resonated clearly across Kapsabet: Nandi continues to produce champions, and Sebastian Sawe’s journey is yet another powerful chapter in the county’s enduring athletics legacy.