The global running community is in mourning following the death of Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest marathon runner and an inspirational figure with deep connections to Canada. Singh, who passed away at the remarkable age of 114, died after being struck by a vehicle near his home in northern India, family members confirmed Wednesday.
Known affectionately as the “Turbaned Tornado,” Singh became a worldwide sensation when he completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon at age 100, cementing his place in the Guinness World Records. His daughter-in-law, Paramjit Kaur, told reporters that Singh was walking near his village in Punjab’s Jalandhar district when the accident occurred.
“He lived an extraordinary life dedicated to fitness and inspiring others,” said Kaur. “Even at his advanced age, he maintained his daily walking routine, which tragically led to this accident.”
Singh spent significant time in Canada with family in Brampton, Ontario, where he developed a devoted following. His remarkable achievements brought him global recognition, particularly in the Canadian running community, where he participated in numerous events after taking up marathon running in his late 80s.
Harmander Singh, his longtime coach and friend, reflected on the centenarian’s legacy: “He transcended sport. Fauja wasn’t just a runner—he was a symbol of human potential at any age. His message that it’s never too late to achieve your goals resonated with people worldwide.”
Born in 1911 in pre-partition India, Singh turned to competitive running at age 89 following personal tragedy. His impressive resume included completing the London Marathon eight times and carrying the Olympic torch during the 2012 London Games. Though Guinness World Records couldn’t verify his birth date due to the lack of birth certificates in rural India at the time, his achievements remain no less extraordinary.
Singh’s connection to Canadian politics was also significant. In 2011, following his record-breaking Toronto marathon finish, he was honored by then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper and received numerous accolades from Canadian officials recognizing his contributions to fitness awareness among seniors.
Alan Brookes, race director for the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, described Singh as “transformative” for the event. “When Fauja ran with us, he brought international attention to our marathon and inspired countless Canadians to take up running regardless of their age,” Brookes told CO24.
Singh’s death has sparked tributes across global news platforms, with athletes, politicians, and community leaders acknowledging his influence. He remained active until his final days, advocating for healthy living through his foundation, which promotes exercise among elderly populations.
The loss of this remarkable figure raises important questions about legacy and inspiration: How do we continue to honor the example set by individuals like Fauja Singh, who challenge our perceptions of age and human capability? As communities worldwide reflect on his extraordinary journey from rural Punjab to international marathon courses, his message that limitations are often self-imposed remains perhaps his most enduring contribution.
