Sabastian Sawe ran an astonishing 1:59:30 – the first time anyone has run a competitive marathon under two hours - on an historic day at the TCS London Marathon.
On a barely believably morning which redefined the sport, Sawe was one of two athletes to break the two-hour barrier as Yomif Kejelcha, on his marathon debut, finished in 1:59:41.
Such was Sawe’s stunning run that Jacob Kimlimo, who appeared a distant third, would have broken Kelvin Kiptum’s world-record by finishing in 2:00:28.
Records had already fallen earlier in the day as Tigst Assefa clocked 2:15:41 to break the women’s-only record she set in London last year.
Assefa, Helen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei were stride-for-stride until Assefa powered clear ahead of the final turn overlooked by Buckingham Palace.
Obiri finished second in 2:15:53, two seconds ahead of Jepkosgei.
Marcel Hug equalled David Weir’s record of eight London Marathon wins with another dominant display in the capital.
Hug, Weir and China’s Luo Xingchaun were part of a three-way battle during the opening miles but the Swiss soon showed his class and pulled away.
Hug had Xingchaun had for company around Cutty Sark but by halfway had established a 46 second lead to render the race effectively over.
In the end it was something of a procession as Hug raced clear to win in 1:24:13.
Xingchaun held on for second place with Weir completing the podium placings.
Catherine Debrunner defended her London title after a thrilling battle with Tatyana McFadden that was decided on The Mall.
The pair were embroiled in an intriguing duel throughout London’s streets as McFadden turned back the clock.
The American, who has not won a Major since 2021, appeared to be on the verge of a significant upset in the closing miles but Debrunner broke clear to win.
Manuela Schar, who was in the conversation during first 5k, eventually finished third.
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Episode 96: What Went Down Down Under
