National Times Bureau, July 14, 2025: Legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh, hailed as the world’s oldest marathoner, has passed away at the age of approximately 114. He had reportedly been unwell for the past few days, family sources confirmed on Monday.
Fauja Singh began his marathon journey in 2000, going on to participate in eight marathons and inspiring countless people worldwide with his indomitable spirit.
He made global headlines in 2011 when he competed in the Toronto Marathon, becoming recognized as the oldest marathon runner ever to finish the race. However, his name was not officially entered into the Guinness Book of World Records due to the absence of a birth certificate.
In 2012, he stunned the world once more by completing a 20-kilometre run during the London Marathon. His last professional race came in 2013 when, at the age of 101, he ran in the Hong Kong Marathon.
Singh took up running following a profound personal tragedy the loss of his wife and son in an accident when he was 89 years old. Overcoming grief and depression, he chose long-distance running as a path to healing, becoming a global icon of resilience, fitness, and hope.
His extraordinary life story has left an indelible mark on the world of athletics and continues to inspire generations.
