{
  "id": 10883598,
  "title": "'No limits': Marathon world record holder Sawe chasing history",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/no-limits-marathon-world-record-holder-sawe-chasing-history",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-30T07:09:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/others/2026/09/1544594/no-limits-marathon-world-record-holder-sawe-chasing-history"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "BERLIN: Former marathon world record holder Sebastian Sawe, who sprinted to a sub-two-hour time of 1:59:30 in London, remains convinced that even faster splits are achievable for both himself and the sport. In an interview with AFP, Sawe revealed that he believes toppling the two-hour barrier is possible if conditions are favorable, such as ideal weather and optimal pacing, while maintaining peak physical condition. Sawe highlighted the rising popularity of marathon running and technological advancements as key factors that could lead to even more groundbreaking performances in the years ahead. He acknowledged that while predicting the future of marathon times is challenging, \"there are no limits for now.\" Despite his own race in Berlin resulting in a fractured leg, Sawe remains optimistic, stating that he plans to return to London in 2027 and potentially compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He also expressed admiration for fellow Kenyan athlete Tigst Assefa, who managed to secure the third-fastest women's marathon time despite rupturing her Achilles tendon during the race, ultimately collapsing shortly after crossing the finish line. Sawe praised Assefa's mental strength and determination, stating that she is \"always been a winner.\" He further emphasized his commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport through rigorous testing, aiming to counteract the perception of widespread doping in athletics. Nairobi was set to host the World Athletics Championships in 2029, and Sawe expressed hope that his stringent testing regimen would bolster Kenya's reputation and showcase the country's dedication to combating doping.",
  "summary": "BERLIN: Sabastian Sawe, the first man to run the marathon in under two hours, believes even faster times are on the horizon both for him and the sport.",
  "key_points": [
    "Sebastian Sawe aims to break two-hour marathon barrier.",
    "Sawe optimistic despite Berlin race setback, plans 2027 London return.",
    "Praised Tigst Assefa's mental strength after Achilles rupture."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}