Fauja Singh, hailed as the oldest marathon runner and the first 100-year-old to complete a full marathon, tragically passed away after being struck by a vehicle on Monday. He was crossing the road in his native village of Beas Pind, located near Punjab, India, at the age of 114.
According to reports from Indian media, Singh died in a local hospital after the accident. Police indicated that the vehicle involved fled the scene, and efforts are being made to identify and locate it.
In a heartfelt statement, Singh's long-time coach, Harmander Singh, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating on social media, "It is with the utmost sadness that I can confirm our icon of humanity and powerhouse of positivity Fauja Singh has passed away in India." He also mentioned their commitment to raise funds to build the Fauja Singh Clubhouse along the training route in Ilford where Singh had practiced.
Fauja Singh was not always a runner; he began to run competitively at the age of 89. His journey into the world of marathon running began in 2000, and he completed numerous marathons up until his retirement in 2013. In a 2011 interview with OMNI News, Singh stated, "I was never a runner. All I used to do was farming so I could feed my kids." His story of late-blooming athleticism captured the attention of the world, especially when he completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon at the age of 100, earning the title of the first centenarian to finish a full marathon, as recognized by the Olympics.
Singh, affectionately known as the "Turbaned Tornado," served as the torchbearer for the London 2012 Olympics, further cementing his status as an inspirational figure. The Brampton Marathon released a statement honoring Singh's legacy: "Fauja Singh was more than a runner; he was a movement. His story reminded us and the world that it's never too late to take a meaningful first step."
Singh turned to running after the sudden deaths of his wife and son. Originally from India, he later immigrated to England, where he claimed his life experienced a transformation that he described as a "reincarnation." Interestingly, Singh's path to running was fraught with challenges; as a child, his parents were concerned about his ability to walk. He mentioned, "My parents got me treated, and I started walking at the age of five. Even after that, I could not do long walks. It was at the age of 15, when I felt a little strength in my legs," highlighting his resilience and determination.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Singh, calling him "extraordinary" and a source of inspiration for the youth of India regarding fitness. Modi emphasized Singh's exceptional athleticism and remarkable determination, showcasing the impact Singh had beyond the realm of sports.
Despite his monumental achievements in marathon running, Singh was never officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records due to the absence of a birth certificate, which made verifying his age difficult. This issue stems from India's historical context, where birth certificates were not systematically issued in 1911 when he was born.
