Fauja Singh, renowned as one of the world's oldest marathon runners, tragically died in a hit-and-run incident in his birthplace, Beas Pind, Punjab, India. Singh was crossing the road when an unidentified vehicle struck him. Locals rushed him to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
Singh, who began his running career at the age of 89, carved a niche in marathon history by completing nine full marathons from 2000 to 2013 and gained acclaim for his remarkable athleticism, particularly as a centenarian. His running club and charity, Sikhs In The City, announced that upcoming events in East London would celebrate his legacy.
Authorities are currently investigating the hit-and-run incident, with district police promising to apprehend the responsible party soon. Tributes flowed in for Singh following the news of his passing, including a poignant acknowledgment from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised his incredible spirit and determination.
Singh’s remarkable journey culminated in various accolades, including being a torchbearer for the 2012 London Olympics and a celebrated participant in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2011, where he became the first centenarian to complete a full marathon. Despite such achievements, Guinness World Records did not officially recognize his claim as the oldest marathon runner due to the lack of a birth certificate from his year of birth.
Born in Punjab, Singh faced a challenging childhood, coming from a farming background and experiencing the hardships of war and Partition. His running was inspired by personal loss, including the death of his wife and later, a tragic incident involving his son.
Having moved to London in the 1990s, Singh achieved fame after joining a local running group, thanks in large part to his coach, Harmander Singh, who guided him throughout his running journey. After debuting at the London Marathon barely a month before turning 89, Singh went on to improve his timings significantly in subsequent races.
His fame transcended borders when Adidas featured him in their “Impossible is Nothing” campaign alongside icons like Muhammad Ali. As a pioneer for senior athletes, Singh’s ethos of simplicity and positivity resonated with many, and he credited his longevity to maintaining a disciplined lifestyle and staying active.
In his final years, Singh split his time between India and the UK, emphasizing his desire to continue inspiring others through his story. His lasting impact is evident as those who knew him share fond memories of a man whose life was dedicated to positivity and the human spirit.
