Rohit - Tuesday, Jul 15, 2025Fauja Singh, the world-renowned marathon runner and a symbol of resilience, passed away at the age of 114 in a tragic road accident on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway in Punjab on Monday. Singh, who inspired millions across the globe with his extraordinary longevity and fitness, earned the global title of the “World’s Oldest Marathoner.”
Born on April 1, 1911, in Beas village, Jalandhar (Punjab), Fauja Singh lived a remarkable life that shattered age-related stereotypes. He didn’t take up running professionally until the age of 89, following the painful loss of his wife and son. What started as a healing journey quickly turned into a globally celebrated athletic career.
Singh ran his first major race, the London Marathon, in 2000, at the age of 89. Over the next decade, he participated in nine full marathons, making history not just with his age but with his spirit.
Tragically, on July 8, 2025, Singh was hit by a car while walking near his village. He suffered severe head injuries and succumbed to them the same evening. His body is currently being kept in a mortuary until his children, who live abroad, arrive to perform his last rites.
Tributes have poured in from across the world. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria expressed his sorrow on social media, recalling Singh’s inspiring presence during the ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ march in 2024. He wrote, “Even at 114, he infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit.”
| Year | Event | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | London Marathon | Debut marathon at age 89 |
| 2003 | Toronto Waterfront Marathon | Best marathon time: 5h 40m 4s |
| 2004 | Athens Olympics | Torchbearer for the Olympic Games |
| 2012 | London Olympics | Torchbearer once again at age 101 |
| 2013 | Hong Kong 10K | Ran his final race at age 101 |
| Various | Marathon Appearances | 9 full marathons in London, Toronto, New York |
| Various | Endorsements | Featured in ad with Beckham & Muhammad Ali |
Even at 114, Fauja Singh remained deeply active in public life. He was a staunch supporter of a drug-free Punjab and regularly participated in awareness marches. His strength, endurance, and humility earned him global admiration and made him an inspiration for athletes of all ages.
As the world mourns his loss, Singh’s legacy of perseverance and purpose continues to uplift those striving to beat odds, on and off the track.
