British Sikh marathon runner Fauja Singh dies aged 114

Renowned marathon runner Fauja Singh, widely regarded as the world’s oldest marathon participant, passed away on Monday following a road accident in Punjab’s Jalandhar district. He was 114.

The incident occurred around 15:30 in Beas village near Adampur, where Singh was reportedly struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing the road. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Singh began his remarkable running journey at the age of 89, turning to long-distance running to cope with grief following the loss of his wife and son in an earlier accident. What began as a personal path to healing soon became a global story of resilience and inspiration.

His passing drew tributes from leaders across the political spectrum. Chandigarh-based author Khushwant Singh also shared a heartfelt homage to Fauja Singh.

“My Turbaned Tornado is no more,” wrote Khushwant Singh in a heartfelt Facebook post, referencing the title of Fauja Singh’s biography, which he authored.

Over the years, Singh participated in 18 marathons, beginning with the London Marathon in 2000. His final competitive races were held in Toronto (2011), London (2012), and Hong Kong (2013), after which he retired from full marathons. Despite running competitively until the age of 102, his feat was not officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records due to lack of verifiable birth documentation.

A British Sikh and lifelong vegetarian, Singh was known for his modest lifestyle and became a symbol of determination and longevity. He appeared in public campaigns, including for PETA, and famously featured in Adidas’s “Impossible is Nothing” campaign.

In addition to his sporting achievements, Singh participated in numerous charity runs, supporting causes such as neonatal care and community welfare, particularly within the Sikh diaspora.

Fauja Singh leaves behind a legacy that transcends sport — a testament to human endurance, purpose, and the power of starting anew at any age.