Fauja Singh: World's Oldest Marathon Runner Dies
Singh's remarkable journey, from taking up running at 89 to becoming a marathon runner, will continue to inspire people around the world. His determination and perseverance have left a lasting legacy, and his memory will be celebrated through various events and tributes.
Fauja Singh, a 114-year-old Indian-born British national, has died in a road accident in Punjab, India, after being hit by an unidentified vehicle while crossing the road in his village. Singh, nicknamed the "Turbaned Tornado", was a widely regarded marathon runner who took up distance running at 89 after the death of his wife and son.
Singh's life story is one of overcoming adversity, having been teased for his weakness as a child and starting running at 89 after experiencing personal loss. He completed nine marathons, including one in Toronto in 2011, where he finished in eight hours, 11 minutes, and six seconds. Despite his achievements, Guinness World Records couldn't officially recognize him as the oldest marathon runner due to lack of documentation.
Singh was a torchbearer for the Olympics and appeared in ads with sports stars, and was praised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inspiring youth on fitness. He set multiple records for running marathons across various age categories, including being the first person over 100 to finish a full marathon in 2011. His legacy will be celebrated through upcoming events in London.
The suspect, a 26-year-old man who lives overseas, has been arrested and charged with negligent driving and culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Singh's death has sent shockwaves around the world, with many paying tribute to his inspiring life and achievements.