The Punjab police have announced the arrest and charging of Amritpal Singh Dhillon, a 26-year-old man based in Canada, in connection with the tragic hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of Fauja Singh, who was widely regarded as the world's oldest marathon runner. The accident occurred in Sing's native village of Beas, India, where he was struck by a vehicle on a Monday and subsequently died in a local hospital due to his injuries.
At the time of his passing, Fauja Singh was 114 years old. His remarkable life and achievements in marathon running had gained global recognition, especially after he made headlines in 2011 as a centenarian runner. He was recorded by the Olympics as the oldest man and the first centenarian to complete a full marathon, notably finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon that same year. Singh earned the nickname "Turbaned Tornado" and had the honor of being a torchbearer for the London 2012 Olympics, showcasing not just athletic prowess but also an inspiring story of perseverance.
Fauja Singh's journey into competitive running began rather late in life, as he was an amateur athlete during his youth. He only started running with purpose at the age of 89, a decision sparked by the personal tragedies of losing his wife and son. Originally from India, Singh moved to England, describing his relocation as a pivotal moment in his life, akin to a "reincarnation." In a revealing interview with OMNI News, he explained that he had not always been athletic, noting that as a child, his parents were worried about his ability to walk. It was not until he was five years old that he was treated for his walking difficulties, and it took until he was 15 to finally feel some strength in his legs.
Throughout his running career, which spanned from 2000 to 2013, Singh participated in multiple marathons, inspiring communities worldwide with his message of health and resilience. The Brampton Marathon, among other events, has commemorated Singh's legacy, stating, "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."
Despite his extraordinary achievements, Singh was never inducted into the Guinness Book of World Records due to the inability to verify his age—he did not possess a birth certificate, as such documents were not maintained in India during 1911, the year of his birth.
As of now, Amritpal Singh Dhillon remains in custody following the charges related to the incident. He moved to Canada with his mother and sisters and has a work permit valid until 2027. Dhillon had traveled to India on June 23, 2023, before this unfortunate event unfolded.
The world mourns the loss of Fauja Singh, a beacon of perseverance and an inspirational figure who redefined the limitations of age and athleticism. His story continues to resonate, underscoring the importance of resilience and the pursuit of one's passions, regardless of the circumstances one may face.
