Fauja Singh, celebrated as the world's oldest marathon runner, has passed away at the age of 114 after being struck by a vehicle in his birth village, Beas Pind, Punjab. According to police reports, Singh was crossing the road when the accident occurred. Locals rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Rising to fame as a running icon, Singh started his marathon journey at the atypical age of 89, eventually completing nine marathons between 2000 and 2013. His dedication toward running and profound spirit resonated worldwide, signifying the potential for achievement at any age.
Tributes pouring in from around the globe included expressions from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who lauded Singh's exceptional determination and athletic prowess. His running club, Sikhs In The City, expressed its sadness over his passing, pledging to honor his legacy through upcoming events dedicated to his life and work.
The tragic event took place on a busy street just outside his hometown, prompting district police officials to assure the public that they are actively pursuing the investigation. In his final months, he had been in good health, often seen walking several miles daily in his village, embodying his mantra of physical upkeep and self-care.
On numerous occasions, Singh stunned the running community, especially with his track record, including the 2011 Toronto Marathon, where he became the first centenarian to officially finish a full marathon. However, his claim as the oldest marathon runner was not recognized by Guinness World Records due to lack of comprehensive birth documentation, an issue stemming from historical record-keeping practices in India at the time of his birth.
Despite the adversities he faced in life, including the tragic loss of his wife and son, Singh found solace and purpose in running. Relocating to London in the 1990s, he discovered camaraderie among local runners, which ignited his passion for the sport. Singh embodied resilience, transforming personal grief into motivating energy, culminating in a running career that would inspire countless individuals across generations.
Fauja Singh’s remarkable story began during his debut in the London Marathon at nearly 89 years old, where he famously insisted on wearing a turban during the race, a testament to his Sikh identity and pride. Not only did he complete the race, but he also became an emblem of hope and perseverance, running with a tagline: "Oldest running for the youngest."
As an athlete, he continued to achieve remarkable strides into his 100s, earning endorsements from brands like Adidas and accolades from dignitaries worldwide, including a personal meeting with Queen Elizabeth II. His philosophy emphasized simplicity—eating less, engaging in regular exercise, and maintaining a positive outlook on life.
In his twilight years, Singh split his time between India and the UK, always filled with joy for the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind. His passing is a reminder of the power of endurance and the impact of joy, discipline, and humility in our lives. British representatives commemorated him as a source of inspiration, exemplifying that age is no barrier to achievement.
Fauja Singh's spirit, tenacity, and vibrant enthusiasm for life will remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him, illustrating that one's story is forever running in the tracks of impact they leave behind.
