Sebastian Sawe reveals 2024 plans, introduces Ugandan athlete who mentored him

By Tony Kipkorir

Little-known Sebastian Sawe is a man of few words but lots of action on and off the track. 

The 28-year-old has delivered every time he has been called upon to represent the country in international competitions.

Sawe was among the runners who bagged a gold medal for Kenya in the inaugural World Road Running Championships staged in Riga, Latvia on Sunday, October 1, 2023. 

Some of the other titles the Kapsabet-based athlete has clinched in his career so far include the Generali Halbmarathon, TCS World 10K Bengaluru and Bahrain Royal Night Half Marathon.

Despite his prowess, very few individuals know Sawe’s story and the people who have played a crucial role in his career. 

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In an exclusive interview with SportPesa News, Sawe narrated the role his uncle, Abraham Chepkirwork played in his impressive career. 

“My uncle was a former 800m runner. He has done a lot to help me reach where I am today. When I started running, he used to give me equipment such as training kits,” revealed Sawe

The 2023 Valencia Half Marathon fifth-place finisher added that Chepkirwork has been his number one supporter, pushing him to do better every day. 

“He always motivates and supports me in my running journey. He advises me to be hardworking, patient and discipline,” he explained.

Sawe, who has previously trained in Iten, disclosed that his main goal is to represent Kenya in France next year. 

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“My plan for 2024 is to secure an Olympic qualification in 10K. I need to work on my speed in order to post excellent times next year,” commented Sawe. 

Chepkirwork is a former Ugandan runner, who has represented the neighbouring country several times on the international stage. 

He was born in Kapchorwa, a district domiciled in the eastern region of the country, near Mount Elgon. 

Some of the major medals that Chepkirwork won include a bronze medal at the 2006 Beijing World Junior Championship and silver in the 2008 World Athletics final held in Stuttgart, Germany. 

In the 2008 Olympic Games, Sawe’s uncle was the only middle-distance runner (800m) in Uganda’s squad. 

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However, he did not make it to the final which was won by the current world record holder David Lekuta Rudisha in scintillating fashion.

Chepkirwork was nominated for the Ugandan athlete of the year award after the Olympics, finishing third behind Benjamin Kiplagat and Moses Kipsiro.