A 114-year-old man, known as the “Turbaned Torpedo,” who made history as the oldest man to complete a marathon in Toronto in 2011, has tragically passed away. Fauja Singh, an Indian-born runner, died after being struck by a vehicle in his native village in Punjab, sustaining critical injuries that led to his death at the hospital.
Singh’s remarkable feat of running a full marathon at the age of 100 during the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon garnered global attention, despite not being officially recognized by Guinness World Records due to the lack of a verifiable birth certificate. His British passport indicated his birthdate as April 1, 1911, while Indian officials confirmed the absence of birth records for that year.
Alan Brookes, race director at TCS, paid tribute to Singh, acknowledging his pivotal role in elevating the event’s status and inspiring countless individuals worldwide. Singh’s running club, Sikhs In The City, and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned his passing, emphasizing his exceptional impact on promoting fitness and youth empowerment.
Following a series of personal tragedies, including the loss of his son in a devastating accident, Singh turned to running at the age of 89 as a means of coping with grief and depression. His journey from a grief-stricken farmer in India to an iconic marathon runner showcased his resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
Participating in his first London Marathon at 89, Singh went on to complete numerous marathons, with his best time recorded at the 2003 Toronto Marathon. His final competitive race at the age of 101 in the Hong Kong Marathon exemplified his unwavering dedication to the sport and his desire to leave a lasting legacy.
Reflecting on his retirement from competitive running, Singh expressed hope that his legacy would endure and urged continued recognition for his contributions beyond his athletic achievements. His impact transcended sports, resonating with admirers globally who admired his indomitable spirit and remarkable journey.
Modi lauded Singh as an exceptional athlete and expressed sorrow over his passing, underscoring the profound influence he had on countless individuals worldwide. Singh’s remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, courage, and the enduring legacy of a humble farmer turned marathon legend.
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