Sebastian Sawe offered holiday tour by KTB

Newly minted world record holder Sebastian Sawe has been accorded a four-night holiday treat at a destination of his choice by the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) as the country continue to soak up his heroics at the London Marathon last Sunday.

Sawe etched his name into sporting immortality by becoming the first man to smash the elusive two-hour barrier in 42km, recording an astonishing 1:59:30 to obliterate late Kelvin Kiptum’s previous record by 65 seconds.

The offer which is a fully sponsored four-night luxury getaway dubbed the “Champion’s Retreat,” will allow Sawe to recuperate at a luxury destination of his choice within Kenya.

KTB Chief Executive Officer June Chepkemei congratulated Sebastian Sawe on his landmark achievement, noting that his success goes beyond personal victory to reflect Kenya’s enduring dominance on the global athletics stage.

"Sebastian Sawe has elevated Kenya on the global stage, flying our national flag higher at an international platform. London, where this historic feat took place, is one of our top source markets for tourists, and moments like these resonate deeply with global audiences. His achievement is not only a personal triumph but a celebration of the resilience, discipline, and determination that define Kenyan athletes,” said Chepkemei.

She also paid tribute to the broader team of Kenyan athletes who competed at the event, noting that their collective excellence amplifies Kenya’s standing worldwide.

"We, equally, congratulate all our sportsmen and women and thank them for the role they play in profiling Kenya as the Home of Champions. We are proud of what our athletes continue to achieve and there is no better way to leverage the country’s brand as a magical destination,” she added.

Sports have long been one of Kenya’s strongest national assets, alongside its remarkable wildlife, vibrant culture, and breath-taking scenery.

The Board has previously engaged and hosted celebrated athletes such as Eliud Kipchoge and Faith Kipyegon as part of its tourism promotion initiatives. Notably, Faith Kipyegon currently serves as a destination ambassador.

"Our athletes, especially our marathoners, are our greatest destination ambassadors. Whenever they win, the Kenyan flag is raised and our national anthem is sung, drawing millions of people around the world to Kenya.

“The holiday will help Sebastian Sawe understand his country better and tell even more intriguing stories to his friends and colleagues across the world," Chepkemei stated.