World's Oldest Marathon Runner Fauja Singh Dies in Tragic Incident

Fauja Singh, widely regarded as the world's oldest marathon runner who began racing at the age of 89, died in a hit-and-run accident in his native Punjab. His legacy as a symbol of resilience and positivity, including numerous marathons and inspirational achievements, will live on through tributes and upcoming events dedicated to his memory.

Fauja Singh, a British-Indian and renowned as the world's oldest marathon runner, tragically passed away at the age of 114 after a hit-and-run incident in his hometown of Beas Pind, Punjab. Local authorities reported that Singh was crossing the road when an unknown vehicle struck him, leading to his hospitalization where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Singh's remarkable journey in marathon running began at the age of 89, and he earned international acclaim for setting records across various age brackets, including becoming one of the first centenarians to complete a marathon. He participated in nine marathons between 2000 and 2013, a pursuit that transformed him into a global icon.

His charity and running club, Sikhs In The City, announced that upcoming events in Ilford, where he lived since 1992, would be dedicated to honoring his life and achievements. Authorities in Punjab have launched a search for the individual responsible for the hit-and-run, with local police expressing confidence that justice will be served.

Upon news of his passing, tributes flooded in from across the globe. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognized him as an outstanding athlete with remarkable perseverance. The running club confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement, highlighting Singh's immense positivity and contributions to humanity.

In interviews, Singh often reflected on his humble beginnings and the trials he faced throughout his long life. Overcoming personal tragedies, including the loss of his wife and son, he began running as a means of coping with grief after moving to London. His pursuit of running connected him to a community that would become instrumental in shaping his illustrious career in marathons.

Singh made his marathon debut in 2000 at the London Marathon, raising money for charity while asserting his cultural identity by running in his patka, a traditional Sikh headwear. Over the years, he demonstrated extraordinary improvements in his race times, inspiring countless individuals along the way.

His legacy extends beyond his running times; Singh’s philosophy on life revolved around simple principles—eating less, running more, and maintaining happiness—which he credited for his longevity. As a celebrated figure, he was featured in various advertising campaigns and held various honors, including a meeting with Queen Elizabeth II.

Throughout his life, Singh remained dedicated to charitable causes, often donating his earnings to help those in need. In his later years, he divided his time between India and the UK, frequently expressing his desire to reunite with family and friends. His story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and serves as an inspiration to many around the world.