Fauja Singh, World’s Oldest Marathon Runner, Dies at Unconfirmed Age
Fauja Singh, the iconic British-Sikh runner celebrated as the world’s oldest marathon participant, has passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that inspired millions across generations and continents. Although his exact age remained a subject of debate, Singh was widely believed to be over 100 years old at the time of his historic athletic achievements.
Singh gained international fame in 2011 when he completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, becoming what many regarded as the first centenarian to finish a full 26.2-mile race. According to BBC News, Singh completed the marathon at the reported age of 100, finishing in just over eight hours and earning global recognition for his endurance and vitality. While official documents confirming his birth year have been elusive, Singh himself maintained he was born on April 1, 1911, in Punjab, India.
Dubbed the "Turbaned Tornado" for his flowing beard and traditional Sikh attire, Singh began long-distance running in his 80s, following the loss of his wife and son. His entry into competitive running was both a tribute to their memory and a pursuit of personal healing. “Running is my life,” Singh was often quoted as saying, according to The Guardian, underscoring his deeply spiritual connection to the sport.
Throughout his career, Singh ran in numerous international marathons, including in London and New York, often raising awareness and funds for charitable causes. He retired from competitive running in 2013 after completing the Hong Kong Marathon’s 10K race at the age of 101, per CNN.
His death has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the global sports community. Gurdev Singh, a spokesperson for the British Sikh community, remarked, “Fauja Singh was not just a runner—he was a symbol of resilience, faith, and lifelong vitality.”
Though his official age may never be definitively verified, Fauja Singh’s story remains a timeless testament to human potential, proving that age is not a barrier to greatness.
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