Centenarian and record-holding marathon participant meets untimely demise in India - Elderly Marathon Competitor, Age 114, Fatal Road Mishap in India
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathon runner, passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 114. The "Turbaned Tornado," as he was affectionately known, was struck by an unidentified vehicle in his native village of Beas, near Jalandhar in Punjab, India.
Born on April 1, 1911, in a region that was part of the British Empire (India at the time), Singh began his running journey at the ripe age of 89. His story began as a way to combat depression following the deaths of his wife and son. Despite not having an official birth certificate, his British passport indicated his birthdate.
Singh made history when he completed a full marathon at the age of 100 in the 2011 Toronto Marathon, becoming the oldest man to do so. His athletic achievements did not stop there; he also had the honour of carrying the Olympic torch in 2004 and 2012.
Singh's daily routine was a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He would embark on cross-country marches in his home state of Punjab in northwest India, and his diet consisted of the local sweet "Laddu," made from condensed milk. The consumption of "Laddu" was a regular part of his dietary habits.
The incident that led to Singh's demise is currently under investigation, with a police FIR registered. Authorities have assured that the vehicle responsible will be traced, and the accused will be arrested.
India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, paid tribute to Singh, calling him "extraordinary" and highlighting how he inspired youth on fitness. He described Singh as an exceptional athlete with incredible determination.
Singh's legacy as a torchbearer for the 2012 London Olympics and an inspiring figure in the world of running remains significant. His death has been widely mourned, including by Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit and the running community worldwide.
Singh last ran a marathon in 2013, at the age of 101, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire. His spirit, determination, and resilience will undoubtedly live on, serving as a testament to the power of human spirit and the pursuit of dreams, no matter the age.
[References] [1] The Indian Express. (2025, July 15). Fauja Singh, world's oldest marathon runner, dies after being hit by vehicle in Punjab. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/fauja-singh-dies-after-being-hit-by-vehicle-in-punjab-7978175/ [2] BBC News. (2025, July 15). Fauja Singh: World's oldest marathon runner dies aged 114. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-53748371 [3] The Guardian. (2025, July 15). Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathon runner, dies aged 114. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jul/15/fauja-singh-worlds-oldest-marathon-runner-dies-aged-114 [4] The New York Times. (2025, July 15). Fauja Singh, the World's Oldest Marathon Runner, Dies at 114. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/15/obituaries/fauja-singh-dead.html
Despite the shocking overtaking incident involving a car accident in Beas, India, Fauja Singh, popularly known as the "Turbaned Tornado," continued to make history as probably the oldest marathon runner in the world until his untimely death at the age of 114. His life and athletic achievements in the realm of sports, particularly running, serve as a testament to human spirit, determination, and the pursuit of dreams.
