Kenyan star Sabastian Sawe reveals most memorable race in his career, names toughest competitor

By Tony Kipkorir

The reigning world road running champion Sabastian Sawe has been one of the few consistent road race runners in recent seasons.

Sawe has won almost every race he has taken part in, particularly in 2024 where he triumphed in the Prague Half Marathon, Boston 10K and Peachtree Road Race.

At the Boston 10K, the experienced runner cut the tape in 27:42 while at the Peachtree event, he triumphed in 28:03.

His last win came on Sunday, September 15 in the Copenhagen Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold label road race staged in Denmark.

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The 29-year-old ran a tactical race, running close to the leading park from the start before switching on the gears in the last 400m.

Sawe, who trains in Kapsabet, produced a brilliant kick that saw him lift the title in a lifetime best of 58.05, beating some strong runners like Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo in the process.

Kiplimo, who is the current world record holder in the half marathon, crossed the finish line four seconds later to secure the second position ahead of Sawe’s fellow countryman Isaia Lasoi who clocked 58:10.

In an exclusive interview with Sportpesa Blog, Sawe disclosed that win being a special one for him.

Sawe wins 2024 Copenhagen half marathon

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“The most memorable race in my career is winning the 2024 Copenhagen Half Marathon. It was unforgettable because I raced against the half marathon world record holder and I was able to beat him.

Kiplimo is the toughest competitor I have faced in my career,” explained Sawe who credits hard work for his successes.

Sawe further divulged that he is planning to race again in the coming weeks before he ends his 2024 season.

According to the athlete, who has blood ties with former Uganda runner Abraham Chepkirwork, he will be making his full marathon debut in Valencia on Sunday, December 1.

ALSO READ: SportPesa launch revolutionary Tujiamini Initiative to nurture talent

Tujiamini is an initiative that seeks to provide a platform, including up to 30M shillings in funding, for individual, team sports and various talent, in a year-long campaign that will go around the country in a move aimed at evoking the sense of pride in Kenya’s sports and talent ecosystem.

Applicants are urged to submit their applications through www.tujiamini.co.ke