Fauja Singh, the iconic British-Indian marathon runner, renowned as the world's oldest marathon participant, has tragically died after being involved in a hit-and-run incident in his ancestral village of Beas Pind, Punjab. The police reported that Singh was walking across the road when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Singh’s remarkable journey began later in life, where he defied expectations by starting his running career at the age of 89, ultimately completing nine marathons between 2000 and 2013. His running club, Sikhs In The City, expressed deep sorrow over his passing, announcing that future events would dedicate their efforts to honor his legacy. “A search is currently underway for the driver responsible, and we are confident they will be apprehended soon,” stated Harvinder Singh, a district police officer.
Tributes have poured in following the news of Singh’s death, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorating him as an "exceptional athlete with incredible determination". His running coach, Harmander Singh, lamented the loss of a "powerhouse of positivity" and committed to celebrating Singh’s legacy through their organization.
Remembered as a trailblazer in marathon running, Singh set numerous records. He famously became the first centenarian to complete a full marathon in 2011 in Toronto, although Guinness World Records did not officially recognize his age without adequate birth documentation. Despite this, his British passport indicated a birthdate of April 1, 1911.
Singh’s life story is a testament to resilience. Born in Punjab, he faced hardship early on and eventually moved to London after the losses of his wife and son. It was there, connecting with local runners, that he discovered his passion for running. His debut at the London Marathon, just before his 89th birthday, marked the beginning of a celebrated running career.
More than just an athlete, Singh became a cultural icon, featuring in global campaigns, including an Adidas advertisement alongside legends like Muhammad Ali. His legacy extended beyond the marathon, as he dedicated much of his earnings to charitable causes, emphasizing a philosophy centered on health, happiness, and a disciplined lifestyle.
In his later years, Singh split his time between India and the UK, maintaining a routine that included walking and staying active, famously declaring, "Eating less, running more, and staying happy" as the key to his extraordinary longevity. As the world mourns the loss of this incredible man, his spirit continues to inspire athletes and individuals across generations.
