Fauja Singh was not just a runner; he was a revolution in slow motion—each stride defying time, convention, and limitation. Born in 1911 in Punjab, India, into a life marked early by fragility—unable to walk until age five—few could have predicted the soaring legacy he would carve in his twilight years. He began running in his eighties, not for medals but for meaning. The world watched in awe as Fauja took on full marathons in London, Toronto, and New York, his white beard flowing and saffron turban gleaming under skies that bore witness to history in motion. At 100, he became the oldest person ever to complete a marathon, proving that endurance isn’t just physical—it’s profoundly spiritual.
What set Fauja apart wasn’t just his records—it was his remarkable humility, infectious optimism, and unwavering belief that age is no cage. He ran not only for personal fulfillment but to uplift others—raising awareness for charities, motivating youth, and shining as a beacon for Sikh pride on global podiums.
As the world mourns his passing at 114, it also celebrates a spirit that never stopped running. Fauja Singh’s story is now etched into humanity’s collective conscience—a tale of courage over comfort, persistence over prediction, and a reminder that greatness blooms whenever we choose to chase it
The Turbaned Tornado may have crossed his final finish line, but his legacy continues to sprint through the hearts of millions.
Early Life and StrugglesFauja Singh was born on April 1, 1911, in Beas Pind, Jalandhar, under British India. The youngest of four children in a farming family, his early years were marked by challenges. His family believed he was disabled as he was unable to walk until the age of five due to weak and frail legs. Despite these physical limitations, young Fauja persevered, gradually overcoming his struggles. As he grew into adulthood, he took up farming to support his family, displaying the same grit that would later define his remarkable running career. Late Start to an Iconic Running CareerFauja Singh’s journey as a runner began under heartbreaking circumstances.
In August 1994, following the tragic loss of his fifth son, Kuldeep, Fauja turned to jogging as a way to cope with his grief. It wasn’t until the age of 89, in the year 2000, that he decided to take running seriously. That year, he gained international recognition by completing his first full marathon, the London Marathon, in an impressive 6 hours and 54 minutes. Remarkably, he finished the race 58 minutes faster than the previous world record holder in the over-90 age category.Fauja Singh went on to shatter multiple world records in various age categories. His personal best marathon time of 6 hours and 2 minutes came at the 2003 London Marathon. That same year, at the age of 92, he set another record at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, completing the race in 5 hours and 40 minutes—an astonishing feat for the over-90 category.On October 16, 2011, Fauja Singh made history as the first centenarian to complete a full marathon, finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 8 hours, 11 minutes, and 6 seconds.
This achievement cemented his status as the world’s oldest marathon runner. In 2012, at the age of 101, Fauja carried the Olympic torch for the London Olympics, further solidifying his iconic status. He retired from competitive long-distance running in 2013, after completing a 10-kilometer race in Hong Kong in 1 hour, 32 minutes, and 28 seconds.
Symbol of Resilience and ToleranceFauja Singh’s achievements extended beyond the track. On November 13, 2003, he was honored with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor by the National Ethnic Coalition, becoming the first non-American to receive this prestigious award, recognizing his role as a symbol of racial tolerance. In 2011, he was also conferred the Pride of India title, celebrating his contributions to inspiring millions worldwide.
A Lasting LegacyFauja Singh’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. From a frail child unable to walk until the age of five to a record-breaking centenarian marathoner, his journey captivated the world. Known for his humility, determination, and unwavering spirit, Fauja Singh inspired generations to push beyond limitations and embrace life with courage.As the world mourns the loss of this legendary figure, Fauja Singh’s story will continue to motivate and uplift, reminding us all that age is no barrier to achieving greatness.