'I'm Now a Full Marathon Runner' - Sabastian Sawe Reflects on Award-Winning 2025 Season

Kenya's Sabastian Sawe, crowned the 2025 World Out-of-Stadium Athlete of the Year, has reflected on a season that saw him dominate the marathon scene and establish himself as a global force in road running.

Sabastian Sawe's remarkable year included two major marathon victories. In April, he triumphed at the London Marathon in just his second attempt at the distance, clocking an impressive 2:02:27 to win by over a minute.

He followed this up five months later with a commanding performance at the Berlin Marathon, crossing the line in a world-leading time of 2:02:16, a full four minutes ahead of the runner-up.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

With these wins, Sabastian Sawe maintains a perfect record, having won all three of his career marathons, each in under 2 hours and 3 minutes.

On receiving the World Athletics Award, Sabastian Sawe expressed his excitement, noting that it is proof that his hard work does not go unnoticed.

"It shows that the work I’ve done this year has been recognised, and I really appreciate that. I’m very proud to have won two big marathons. Winning those races in one season is something special. When you line up at those big marathons knowing you have a chance to win, it’s a great feeling," Sabastian Sawe told World Athletics.

Looking ahead, Sabastian Sawe confirmed his complete transition to the 42.2km distance, revealing that he will not be focusing on any other distances.

"I’m now a full marathon runner. I’ve moved on from the half-marathon, so I won’t be defending my title at the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen next year," he stated.

While his next race is set, the details remain under wraps. "I’ll do a marathon in the spring, but we can’t announce which one it is yet."

Sabastian Sawe also hopes his success can serve as a blueprint for aspiring athletes, as he insisted that patience and hard work are the keys to making a mark.

"I hope my journey shows young runners that anything is possible. I used to watch other athletes and believe that one day I could follow the same path," he shared.

The marathon star hones his craft in the high-altitude environment of Kapsabet, Nandi County. He revealed that the area, being in a rural setting and at a great altitude, makes things easier for marathon preparation.

"I train with a strong group of athletes, and the environment is very good for long-distance running. Training in a strong team pushes you. When everyone is working hard, it motivates you to keep improving because you’re always challenging each other," he shared.

Sebastian Sawe’s marathon journey has only just begun, yet he has already shown glimpses of greatness. His early performances suggest he could be the next big star in the event, and perhaps even the athlete capable of breaking the late Kelvin Kiptum’s world record of 2:00:35.