Fauja Singh: Oldest Marathon Runner

A British runner, believed to be the oldest individual in the world to complete a marathon, has passed away at the age of 114 due to a tragic road accident in his birth village of Beas Pind in India. Fauja Singh became a renowned inspiration for athletes globally with his remarkable ability to run marathons even beyond his 100th birthday. Despite facing challenges with thin and weak legs during his childhood and not being able to walk until the age of five, Singh defied the odds and embarked on an extraordinary running journey. His running club and charity, Sikhs In The City, based in London, confirmed the news of his passing. Since moving to Ilford in 1992, Singh participated in marathons, including his maiden race in London in 2000, where he finished with an impressive time faster than other runners of his age group. Notably, he achieved a personal best in Toronto in 2003, completing the marathon in five hours and 40 minutes. In 2011, Singh made history by becoming the first centenarian to run a marathon, following which he retired after serving as a torchbearer at the London 2012 Olympics at the age of 101. Described by his coach at Sikhs In The City as an "icon of humanity and powerhouse of positivity," Singh's legacy was acknowledged by members of parliament and individuals around the world as a true inspiration. Harmander Singh praised his discipline, simple living, and humility, while MPs like Preet Kaur Gill paid tribute to his inspirational spirit, emphasizing that age is merely a number, but one's attitude is what truly matters. Jas Athwal also recognized him as a global Sikh icon who touched the lives of millions. Fauja Singh attributed his long and healthy life to a diet of ginger curries and regular meditation.